I enquired about the weight, and a DJI spokesperson sent me the following statement: “The DJI Mini 5 Pro has a design weight of 249.9 grams. Due to manufacturing tolerances, the actual weight of the product may vary slightly within a range of ±4 g. Minor weight fluctuations are normal. We recommend that when UK users are operating the drone, local regulations are complied with, which can be found here.”
The company refers to it as a “near-250g drone”—terminology I’d never encountered from DJI. Frankly, it feels a little evasive. This isn’t just pedantic nitpicking over a few grams. I live in the UK, and the 250-gram threshold determines whether you can fly a drone in public parks, on beaches, in towns and cities, near people, and in countless other scenarios without additional certification. Previous Mini models have been just under this limit, and it seems like an oversight during the design process to not keep this one comfortably below it, too.
There’s good news, though: With UK drone rules set to change at the beginning of 2026, I don’t have too long to wait until the Mini 5 Pro (and, interestingly, the much bigger DJI Air 3S) becomes completely legal to fly in built-up areas, public parks, and close to people.
The tidings for US-based pilots aren’t so cheery, though. As with all of its recent products, DJI isn’t officially launching the Mini 5 Pro in the US. You can blame the impending DJI ban, and it’s a real shame, because, weight issues aside, this is a fantastic camera drone.
Big Camera Upgrades
Photograph: Sam Kieldsen
The Mini 5 Pro’s slight weight increase comes with genuine benefits. The main improvement is the camera, which now features a 12-MP (or 50 MP in Quad Bayer terms) 1-inch sensor, a significant upgrade from the smaller sensors in previous Mini models. The image quality is edging towards DJI’s Air range, which is remarkable for a drone this size. You’re getting professional-level image quality in a pocketable drone.
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro for $170: WIRED reviewer Julian Chokkattu also tested the U-Bolt Pro from Ultraloq, which uses the same app that the Fingerprint models do. He says it took a few attempts to connect to Wi-Fi, but once connected it worked well with no Wi-Fi issues during the year he tested it. It has built-in Wi-Fi, uses four AA batteries that last around two months (less in super colder weather), and has a hidden mechanical keyhole as a backup in case the battery dies when you’re not home, and you get two spare keys. There’s a charging port underneath so you can give it some juice during emergencies if the lock is dead and you don’t have the key, but we wish it was USB-C instead of Micro USB. It’s a good lock, but he prefers the Fingerprint models since it has a nicer build quality and it has eight batteries, so the lock lasts twice as long.
Photograph: Nena Farrell
Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch for $300: I’ve been testing this lock for a few weeks in tandem with ADT’s security system and Google Home. Unlike the other locks in this guide, I didn’t install it—an ADT tech did, and installation can be included in an ADT security package like the one I’ve been testing. For the lock itself, it’s worked well. It’s a full dead-bolt replacement, and came with a single key, and has both a keypad and fingerprint reader for entry options. The fingerprint reader is speedy and efficient, and my husband says the keypad has been easy to use (you activate the keypad by touching the Yale button, but if your finger is registered to the app, that’s also the fingerprint reader button). Instead of using the Yale app, I primarily control this app with the ADT+ app, but there are versions of this lock that don’t use or require ADT’s service. I do wish I could set it to lock after every 10 minutes, rather than three, but that’s the longest option the ADT+ app gives me to set it. I can also partially control it in the Google Home app, but only to lock and unlock it, not to dive into detailed settings like passcodes and auto-lock times.
Yale Assure Touchscreen Lever Lock for $240: I’ve been testing this no-dead-bolt lever door handle with its sleek-looking keypad for four months on the door to my house from inside my garage. Unlike Yale’s Approach Lock, it won’t sense you coming, but it awakens with even a light touch to the keypad. It’s easy to lock and unlock and view the activity log on the Yale Access app, or you can use a pin code to unlock. You can also create different codes for different people to know exactly who’s been coming and going and when. It works with Google Home, Apple Home, and Alexa, and has also got two physical keys for backup in case of battery failure. Setup wasn’t exactly a breeze, requiring the Bilt app to install and then the Yale app to configure, and online reviews are quite voluminous in their complaints of both battery life and the handle becoming loose over time. Neither of these issues has arisen during our test period; however, we will update this review with further observations as time goes on. —Kat Merck
Avoid These Smart Locks
We haven’t loved every smart lock we’ve tried. These are the ones to skip.
Defiant Smart Deadbolt
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Defiant Smart Deadbolt Powered by Hubspace for $100: The shoddy build quality is a huge turn-off on this smart lock from Defiant. The buttons are mushy, it’s very loud, and what is the point of Wi-Fi connectivity if it never connects to Wi-Fi? I finally got it paired with the Hubspace app, but the lock never stayed connected to my Wi-Fi, so I had none of the benefits. —Julian Chokkattu
Eufy FamiLock S3 Max for $400: This lock is cool because it includes a camera, letting the device double as a digital peephole (convenient for smaller family members!) and has a super interesting biometric option that uses the veins in your palm for authentication. Unfortunately, once installed, the lock didn’t work on my door, even though it was the correct size and placement.
We have tested several other entrants to this nascent category, some good, some bad, and some in between. Here is the lowdown on some of your smart ring alternatives.
Photograph: Adrienne So; Getty Images
Movano Evie Ring for $269: When it first came out, the Movano Evie Ring (4/10, WIRED Review) was touted as the world’s first fitness tracker designed specifically for women. I was very excited! It was recently updated to integrate with Apple Health (in the iOS version of the app) and you can now see your cycle day on your home page, manually log your basal body temperature, and manually add workouts. However, these new features are pretty underbaked compared to those offered by its competitors. Now that Oura and the Galaxy Ring can track periods so accurately, its time may have passed. But it’s relatively affordable, has no subscription fee, and has a blood oxygen sensor, so that’s kind of nice. —Adrienne So
RingConn Gen 2 for $359: Despite a price increase over Gen 1 below, this is still a relatively affordable, subscription-free smart ring. RingConn retained the distinctive squared-off design, but this second-generation ring brought major improvements to sleep tracking (including sleep apnea detection), better battery life, and is very slightly slimmer and lighter. I found basic sleep and health monitoring solid (sleep is much more accurate than the first generation), but workout tracking is still a major weakness. Despite more available exercise types, you must manually trigger workout tracking, and it struggles with accuracy at higher heart rates.
RingConn Smart Ring for $179: Now heavily discounted, the original Ringconn (6/10, WIRED Review) is worth considering. A slightly squared-off design with beveled edges gives it a unique look, the health and sleep tracking work well, and it lasts four or five days between charges. It also comes with a handy battery case (enough for several charges on the go). However, I had trouble with data syncing, the app lacked proper workout tracking, and the data was sometimes inaccurate, though the app seems to be steadily improving through updates.
Luna Smart Ring for $300: The Luna smart ring is a new titanium smart ring with five days of battery life that purports to offer many new AI features, like menstrual health coaching and nutrition advice, in addition to by-now-standard blood oxygen and skin temperature measurements for cycle tracking. However, it would not stay connected to the app and—I’m sorry for how dumb this sounds—it doesn’t sit on the charger well, so I constantly kept finding it uncharged, which was extremely irritating. —Adrienne So
Amazfit Helio Ring for $200: Purveyor of affordable fitness trackers like the Amazfit Active 2, I expected a competitive smart ring from Amazfit, but the Helio (4/10, WIRED Review) is badly out of shape. I like the subtly textured bronze finish, but it is the only color you get. Sizes are also limited to 8, 10, or 12 for now (sizes 7 to 13 are coming). While it has similar capabilities to the smart rings above, the Helio was sometimes hopelessly inaccurate, with heart rate measurements wildly out of step with other trackers. It lacks automatic workout-tracking, battery life averaged three days for me, and the Helio frequently disconnected from the busy and confusing Zepp app. You don’t need a subscription, but there is Aura AI ($70/year) for sleep insights and content or Fitness ($30/year), which includes an AI coach. They are expensive and confusing. (Why have two separate subscriptions?) The Helio works much better in conjunction with a smartwatch (I tried it with the Amazfit Cheetah Pro), as it can merge the data, but as a stand-alone device, it is impossible to recommend.
How Do I Choose the Right Smart Ring Size?
Some smart rings come in standard sizes, but there is variation, and half sizes are rare, so it’s worth taking some time to ensure you get the correct ring size. Most manufacturers will send you a free sizing kit, enabling you to wear a dummy ring for 24 hours. (You may have to buy the ring directly from the manufacturer to get this kit for free.) You should absolutely do this. Bear in mind that your fingers swell and shrink throughout the day. Your smart ring should be snug to enable the sensors to measure accurately, but you will have to remove it regularly to charge, so you don’t want too tight a fit.
Which Finger Should I Wear My Smart Ring On?
You can wear your smart ring on any finger, but most manufacturers recommend wearing it on your index finger, though the middle or ring finger can also work. These three fingers all have large blood vessels for more accurate pulse monitoring. What’s really important is that the ring fits tightly and securely around the base of your chosen finger, so if you have a big knuckle and a narrower finger base (more common with the middle or ring finger), this can be tricky. I recommend wearing it on the index finger of your less dominant hand because I found wearing it on my right index finger, as a right-handed person, led to more damage on the ring and scrapes on some things I touched.
Which Smart Ring Finish or Color Is Best?
All the smart rings we tested combined tough titanium with a sensor array on the inside, but the coatings and colors vary. If you are hard on rings, a silver or gold finish will likely suit you best, as there is less risk of damage. My Oura and Ultrahuman rings with black finishes have visible scratches and chips after a few months. The Oura and Amazfit rings have tiny dimples to help you align the sensors. While I prefer the smooth finish of the Ultrahuman, I suspect correct placement aids accuracy enormously.
How Do I Care for My Smart Ring?
Most smart rings are durable, but if you want to avoid damage, you should remove your ring when working with tools, weight lifting, washing pots and pans, or even cleaning the sink. If your ring is likely to rub against a surface, take it off. I found this was a bigger problem wearing a ring on my index finger than with the middle or ring finger. I scratched the Oura and Ultrahuman rings when gardening, moving boxes, and using a dumbbell. Titanium is also tough enough to damage surfaces in your home. I gouged the porcelain of my sink and marked the inside of a mug with the angular Ringconn. All the smart rings we tested are water resistant, so you can swim or shower without taking them off.
How Often Do I Need to Charge My Smart Ring?
Photograph: Simon Hill
Smart rings come with a charger and cable, but you will generally have to provide your own wall adapter. From dead, they take anywhere from an hour and a half to three hours to fully charge, but you should avoid letting the battery run down completely, or you run the risk of losing health data. We tested the smart rings above with all the bells and whistles turned on, so our battery life estimates are lower than the manufacturer’s claims.
What Smart Ring Features Should I Look For?
Most smart rings will track your sleep, heart rate, and temperature. If you want to keep an eye on your sleep and get health insights unobtrusively and comfortably, smart rings are ideal. Fitness tracking varies, with most smart rings offering basic step counts and movement, some offering manual workout tracking, and others offering automatic workout recognition. But you can expect more depth and accuracy from a traditional fitness tracker or smartwatch. Combining a smart ring with an Apple Watch or Fitbit makes for a seamless experience, allowing you to take off the watch and let it charge at night without gaps in your tracking.
Smart Rings or Smart Watches?
In the past few years, we’ve fielded many questions about why someone would get a smart ring instead of, or in addition to, a regular fitness tracker. Here are a few reasons why you might consider it:
Better battery life. A smart ring is smaller and usually (if not always) has better battery life. It’s a helpful addition to your repertoire if you hate missing a couple hundred, or a thousand, steps while you’re charging your smartwatch every day.
Sleep tracking. It’s no coincidence that our favorite sleep tracker is a small, unobtrusive ring. Maybe you’re tired of having your enormous Apple Watch Ultra smack you in the face every time you turn over. (Or maybe you’re charging it instead!)
Cycle tracking. Many watches and fitness trackers now feature a skin temperature sensor that’s sensitive enough to detect when you’re sick or drinking alcohol. However, in Adrienne’s testing so far, only the Samsung Galaxy Ring and the Oura have been accurate enough to track her menstrual cycle.
Finally, fashion. Watches are a statement and a status symbol; a smartwatch often says nothing more about your preferences and choices besides “I don’t like missing meetings.” Almost everyone we know who has bought a smart ring has done so because they have a hand-me-down Cartier Tank, or a fun Casio or Swatch, that they don’t want to give up. If this is you, good for you! And get a ring!
We have been wearing smart rings continuously for several years (sometimes two or three at a time), so we have a good handle on what makes a smart ring worth buying. Every smart ring we test has been worn for at least a month, usually longer, and we always compare its tracking data against our top pick (Oura) and with other smartwatches and fitness trackers (Apple Watch).
Kopari Performance Plus Deodorant for $20: This deodorant smells great—like a floral, beachy coconut. It’s more fresh than sweet, and I’d say it’s unisex-leaning-feminine. It goes on clear and smooth, and it didn’t stain my clothes at all. However, it didn’t last me through a workout without reapplying, unlike some other brands I tried. I think it’s fine, but I wouldn’t call it a “performance deodorant.” If you’re looking for a clear formula and you don’t mind reapplying, it might be worth a shot.
Fur Ingrown Deodorant for $19: My relationship with this deodorant is as complicated as my relationship with my underarm hair. Sometimes I don’t shave it for months; sometimes I shave it every other day. This deodorant contains ingredients like willow bark (to prevent ingrown hairs) and niacinamide (to brighten underarms). It did both of those things very well. But it didn’t do a great job at preventing odor throughout the day, and the smell is very green and earthy, which didn’t agree with my body chemistry. It might really appeal to some people though—online reviewers seem to love it or hate it—so I recommend smelling it in a store before purchasing.
Curie Clean Deodorant (two-pack) for $28: This formula smells good when first applied, but quickly fades away after an hour or two. It also stained my clothes more than some others I tried. During my second use, it caused some irritation, so I discontinued it. I didn’t notice myself sweating more or less compared to other kinds of natural deodorant. However, the brand does have a great Detox Mask that can help with the transitional period when switching to natural deodorant. It’ll be featured more prominently in an upcoming guide.
Dove Aluminum-Free Deodorant for $11: Dove’s deodorant is mostly fine, and I like how affordable it is. But the texture is really smooth and leaves my underarms feeling strangely sticky, even after letting them dry. The fragrances aren’t powerful or long-lasting enough for my own personal preference. They also all have a powdery undertone that I was not a fan of. I did notice some BO partway through the day during my testing. Since this is so subjective, your mileage may vary. The packaging also came taped shut, and the tape left behind sticky residue on the outside of my deodorant that was impossible to remove without rubbing alcohol.
Lume Whole Body Deodorant (three-pack) for $39: This pricey deodorant smelled terrible to me. I received the Invisible Cream formula in Minted Cucumber, which smelled like pool chlorine and hand soap. I refused to put it on my body. I also received the Clean Tangerine Smooth Solid formula, which initially smelled marginally better but still had a weird hand-soap element to it. It left white marks all over my clothes and oddly smelled like cheese once applied. I washed it off and called my testing done. Reader, I love you, but I’m not going to smell like cheese all day just to see if the smell magically transforms after a few hours. Senior commerce editor Kat Merck also tried the Lavender Sage Invisible Cream, and she said it reminded her of laundry that was left overnight in the washing machine—and that the deodorant made her smell worse than she would have had she not worn any in the first place. Lume does have many fans across the internet, so again, this may be something that can be boiled down to personal preference. I suggest smelling it in a store before purchasing.
Bite Refillable Deodorant for $44: I like the minimalist aesthetic of this refillable deodorant. The sleek metal case is almost miniature, and the entire setup is completely plastic-free. However, it’s easy to push the deodorant stick up too high, which can be messy if the temperatures are warm. In fact, I found the formula too soft in general, and it tended to get gunky and gummy throughout the day, both on my armpits and on the case. I also didn’t love the Neroli scent. I think this could work well if you want the most minimalist, nondescript natural deodorant possible, but there are other refillable options that smell better and last longer.
Photograph: Louryn Strampe
Saltair AHA Deodorant for $12: I was initially really impressed by the scent I tried from Saltair. Pink Beach smells like a summer sunset on the ocean. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts to make it work, I couldn’t apply this formula without my armpits feeling sticky and irritated. I used it on clean, dry, hairless skin, and I let my armpits dry fully before lowering my arms. But I had this constant feeling of tacky, sweaty irritation that eventually led to a rash, so I discontinued testing.
How I Tested and What’s Up Next
I‘ve been wearing natural deodorant since 2020. I wore each of these deodorants at least three times—once during a calm day at home and twice during a workout at the gym. I also tested whether they stain by putting on a black T-shirt after application. I am currently testing deodorants from Jukebox and additional scents from Megababe, as well as various liquid AHA deodorants.
Common Ingredients, Explained
Here’s an explanation about some of the ingredients you may see in your research.
Aluminum: Natural deodorants (usually) mask odor and don’t emphasize sweat reduction. Antiperspirants (usually) mask odor and prevent sweat. The sweat prevention comes from aluminum salts, which block sweat ducts under your arms. There were a few studies that talked about elevated breast cancer or Alzheimer’s disease risks from using aluminum, but there’s no definite link between them (according to the FDA, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute, among others). It’s probably fine to use antiperspirants with aluminum in them. Some people with kidney disease are advised to avoid aluminum, and others want to “play it safe” and avoid aluminum. As for me, I sort of feel better when I sweat? In any case, that’s the lowdown on aluminum. TL;DR: The science says it’s fine for most people.
Parabens: Parabens are preservatives that have been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, but at much lower rates than the body’s natural estrogen. Parabens are somewhat common ingredients in food, medicine, and beauty products, though they’re less common as more people try to avoid them. Some parabens are banned in the EU until more research can be done. The FDA has concluded that parabens are safe. It’s relatively easy to avoid parabens if you choose to. Most antiperspirants don’t contain parabens; most natural deodorants don’t, either.
Phthalates: Phthalates make plastic more flexible and durable, and they can also be used in some beauty products as stabilizers. Some studies have concluded that they’re safe; others suggest links between phthalates and skin irritation, cancer, or early death. But those links were not causal. Phthalates do have a California Proposition 65 warning. The recommended deodorants below are phthalate-free. Many antiperspirants do contain phthalates, but not all of them.
Baking soda: Some natural deodorants use baking soda as an absorptive agent to prevent sweat and as an antibacterial agent to prevent odor. Some people can develop a rash from using baking-soda-based formulas, due to the reaction between the baking soda and their body’s natural pH balance. It’s hard to tell whether or not you’re sensitive to baking soda until you try it, but if you typically have sensitive skin, you may want to try a formula without baking soda. We have some recommendations below.
The Transition Period, Explained
When you make the switch from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, you might go through a transition period lasting from one to four weeks. Long story short, after years of not sweating while using antiperspirants, you might find yourself sweating a whole lot more as your body adjusts when switching to natural deodorant. It’ll level out eventually, but for me personally, I smelled like a gym full of teenage boys for two weeks. Some people don’t have a transition phase at all. I also developed a heat rash from sweating so much during the middle of summer—my skin was irritated, which meant I couldn’t use deodorant at all, therefore raising the Stink Factor. Now, though, I sweat less than I ever did while using antiperspirants.
Be prepared to stick it out. I have an issue with the term “detox,” because our bodies already have a detoxifying process (called the kidneys). However, a clay mask like the Curie Detox Mask can be helpful in drawing out excess moisture and calming down irritated skin that you might experience during the transition period. Otherwise, just keep your underarms dry and be gentle on your skin. It won’t last forever.
It’s hard to empirically test deodorant. Scent preferences vary from person to person, and they can change based on your body chemistry. Some people might prefer a different formula, some people shave and some don’t, and some people care more about sweat absorption than scent. Do you shower every single day? Do you work out frequently? Do you naturally sweat a lot or a little? All of these things can factor in to whether or not you’ll like a deodorant. Here’s what the tables below mean.
Available scents: How many scents you can choose from as of press time.
Free from: These ingredients are not in the deodorant.
Scent strength: “Strong” lasts all day. “Medium” fades halfway through the day. “Faint” means it faded fast or was barely noticeable in the first place.
Sweat level: “Low” means I didn’t notice any sweat. “Medium” means I noticed some sweat but didn’t feel the need to reapply the deodorant. “High” means I sweat a lot and felt the need to reapply throughout the day.
Clothing stains: “None” means it didn’t stain my clothes. “Few” means it might show up on a black T-shirt. “High” means it will absolutely show up on your clothes, regardless of color.
Functional ingredients: A list of the main ingredients that help absorb sweat and prevent odor.
Formula details: Is it vegan? Is it a stick, cream, or roll-on? I’ll let you know here.
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When you buy your Apple Watch, you get to choose which band you get. Skip the rubber bands, which are made from fluoroelastomer. While the company committed to removing PFAS from its products in 2022, we have not gotten confirmation that Apple’s products are PFAS-free.
I find the textile and metal bands to be much more attractive and comfortable than fluoroelastomer bands, which tend to trap sweat and irritate my skin. My favorite of the Apple bands you can choose at checkout this year is the Nike nylon woven Sport Loop. It’s soft, breathable, soaks up sweat, and is infinitely adjustable if your wrists swell when you run. It’s made from recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, and the yarn is reflective if you’re running at night. It comes in five colors and three sizes, so it’s compatible with the 40-, 44-, and 46-mm watch sizes.
One of my biggest gripes about the sex toy industry—and the tech industry for that matter—is that there’s a lot of iteration. New versions of already great products arrive every few years, with very minor changes, and you’re left wondering what the latest brings to the table outside of a higher price. Many sex toy brands are guilty of this, from Womanizer and We-Vibe to Dame.
Lelo’s new Sona 3 Cruise falls into this camp as well, even if its predecessor arrived five years ago. This vibrator doesn’t bring much new to the table. For anyone who’s a fan of the Sona line and feels their existing model is failing in some way—maybe the battery is conking out, or it doesn’t charge properly—the Sona 3 Cruise is a natural upgrade. Or you could save cash and stick with the older tried-and-true Sona 2 Cruise.
Minimal Changes
Courtesy of Lelo
Like its predecessors, the Sona 3 Cruise is made of body-safe silicone and ABS plastic. It’s ultra-smooth to touch, and when paired with water-based lube, it glides over whatever area you’re stimulating. Fun fact: The Sona line may have been designed with the clitoris in mind, but if you like nipple stimulation, it feels wonderful there too.
When fully charged, which takes about two hours, the Sona 3 can deliver two hours of run time. That’s in line with most Lelo products. Similarly, the device is 100 percent waterproof and features the company’s Cruise Control function (it’s in the name!), so when you press the vibrator down harder on your body as you get close to climax, the motors don’t slow down but actually offer a bit of a boost.
The only “big” difference with the Sona 3 Cruise is in the vibration settings. The original Sona Cruise had eight, the Sona 2 Cruise had 12, and the Sona 3 Cruise bumps that up to 16. I’m no Nostradamus, but if Lelo releases a Sona 4 Cruise, I’m willing to bet it will have 20 vibration settings. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it—I know, but it’s OK to shake things up a bit. There doesn’t seem to be much here to warrant a whole new product.
Oh, and the Sona 3 is app-controlled, a standard feature on most Lelo products today, and it enables long-distance play. If you’re using the app solo, not only do you have the intensities and patterns to choose from on your phone, but you can also adjust the intensity by rotating the phone. If you want to delve into advanced mode, you can let the Sona 3 take over by choosing one of the following options: Out of Control or Finish Me Off. For the record, Out of Control is exactly that. It bounces all around with intensities and patterns, and how anyone could find such mayhem enjoyable is beyond me.
The Sona 3 debuts what Lelo calls SmoothRise Technology, meant to create a smooth transition between intensity levels. I’ve always felt like older Sona Cruise products moved fairly seamlessly from one intensity to the next, so I’m not exactly sure what the latest generation is doing differently. Annoyingly, the vibrator’s charger is still proprietary. Is it so hard to add a USB-C port?
Underwhelming Update
Courtesy of Lelo
I’ve always liked the Lelo Sona line quite a bit. I can’t say I was disappointed with the Sona 3 Cruise, but it didn’t leave me with a memorable experience. The sonic pulses feel good, the extra intensities are nice ot have, but I’m not running around town recommending this vibrator to everyone I meet. The Lelo Dot, on the other hand, is a whole other story. I can’t stop talking about that clitoral vibrator; it’s going to ruin me for everything else that comes my way.
If you’re a big fan of the Lelo Sona Cruise line and have been waiting for it to be app-controlled, then the Sona 3 is for you. If you’ve felt that the older models weren’t intense enough, then that’s another good reason to buy the Sona 3. But if you already have a Lelo Sona Cruise, whether it’s the original or Sona 2, and you love it, there’s no need to upgrade, especially if it gets the job done. Save your money or invest it in something new and exciting. You know, like the Lelo Dot.
I’ve never had particularly sensitive nipples—except for the first time I went to a clothing-optional beach and failed to use enough sunblock—so I was excited to give the Lovense Gemini a try.
No, it has nothing to do with Google’s AI chatbot. These are vibrating nipple clamps from Lovense, and I’ve had great experience with many of the company’s sex toys. Many of my partners have had sensitive nipples, so I was curious if I could join the ranks with the Gemini. Usually sold for less than $80, they’re an inexpensive way to spice up the bedroom.
Great for Enthusiasts and Beginners
Courtesy of Amazon
After I fully charged the Gemini, which takes about an hour or so, I used it on myself. What I love is that I can clip the base of the clamps to my bra (there’s also a cord you can put around your neck if you don’t wear a bra), making them 100 percent hands-free.
The Gemini is app-controlled (Android, iOS), so I can lie back and play with the slew of intensities and patterns—surprisingly fun even though I was solo. When I added a bullet vibrator to the mix, the vibrations all over made everything even more exciting in a low-key, kinky sort of way. I also appreciate that the clamps are adjustable, so if you love a tight squeeze, a barely there hold, or somewhere in between, you have options.
Unlike some of the more intimate toys I’ve reviewed, like the Luxus Couples Vibrator or the Lelo Ora 3, I was able to get input from a handful of people with the Gemini. Especially people I know who really (like, really) love nipple play. As much as I enjoyed the vibrations and found the sensation interesting, the Gemini made me realize that, ultimately, I prefer that my nipples get attention from a partner’s tongue or with a slight graze of their teeth.
Of the three nipple-play aficionados I used the Gemini with—one straight and two gay men—all of them became immediate fans of the toy. They liked the hands-free design and the simplicity of the Lovense Remote app. To paint a picture of this experiment, I had the app in hand, and three men sat on the couch across from me, waiting for their turn to try the Gemini. (It’s the closest I’ll probably ever get to an orgy.) Each man had a different preference in intensity and patterns, as well as the tightness of the clamps, so I was able to see just how much the Gemini can be the perfect fit for anyone who’s into nipple play.
Easy to Use
The Gemini is well-built, too. Not only is it waterproof—for all those times you’re craving a proper buzz on your nips while in the shower—but you also get a whopping two hours of run time when it’s fully charged. The device is discreet, in case you’re into public play where one partner enjoys the vibrations, while the other controls what they want you to feel.
Vibrators are some of the most approachable sex toys on the market, but there are so many types of vibrators that it can make even a long-term vibrator owner go a bit mad. From bullet vibrators and the iconic rabbit vibrator to all those funny shaped but deliciously potent vibrators in between, shopping for one can get overwhelming. Luckily, I have a few tips and tricks to help you narrow things down.
First, look at the materials. For vibrators, you want them to be made with 100 percent platinum-cured silicone and/or ABS plastic. Hard glossy plastic is OK for parts that don’t touch your genitals, but platinum silicone is nonporous, easy to clean, and body-safe. Unlike lesser grades of silicone, platinum silicone doesn’t give off any weird smells or compounds that may be unpleasant or even harmful to your genitals. That’s because it’s chemically different from other kinds of silicone. Surgical steel (also called 316 stainless steel), and borosilicate glass are just as body-safe, durable, and nonporous but less common in vibrators and more common in dildos.
Second, look at the charger the vibrator comes with. Is it USB-A, USB-C, or a proprietary AC adapter? I try to keep things simple and stick with vibrators that are USB rechargeable either with USB-A or USB-C. It’s way too easy to lose the charger, and there’s comfort in knowing you can use any charging cable you have lying around. There’s nothing worse than a toy that dies on you mid-use.
Thirdly, when you get your new vibrator, test its vibration strength on the tip of your nose first. You should feel it tickling your nostrils and sinuses, giving you an idea of how deep into your genital tissue it can stimulate. Remember, about 90 percent of the clitoris can’t be stimulated directly because it’s under the skin, so deep vibes are important. The same goes for the phallus—the erectile tissue goes deep into your body, and stimulating it with a vibrator can provide a new and exhilarating experience.
Lastly, consider price—especially if you’re on a budget. Some vibrators can be really expensive based on the features they offer. For example, long-distance devices and suction toys can cost a couple hundred dollars. While a high-quality, body-safe vibrator shouldn’t be cheap, you also want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Make sure to read the specs so you know you’re making a financially wise decision. If a vibrator only has a battery life of one hour, but it’s going to set you back $200, keep looking.
I was not sure what to expect from Diadem’s new BluCore paddle, which is among a handful of new paddles that have replaced the standard honeycomb polymer core with closed-cell foam—they sent me a sample of the stuff, and it looks like you could make a gas station cooler out of it. That foam is substantially more durable—it has a lifetime warranty, in fact—over the long haul and is also not at risk of delaminating in extreme temperatures if, for example, you leave the paddle in the car on a scorching summer day while you grab patio margs.
Given how far this paddle is outside the norm, and the fact that it’s priced at the upper end of the range, I wanted to put real time in before recommending it. What I found was that the BluCore took some time to get used to, but it’s now the paddle I play with the most. The foam core makes for a softer and more forgiving feel—it’s like the suspension on an old Cadillac coupe. While I don’t feel like I’m getting the most out of my serve, I especially love this paddle in defensive situations against better players. It plays consistently from edge to edge and has a nice, big sweet spot.
Whether foam ends up dominating the pickleball market remains to be seen, but people who play nearly every day will also appreciate that this paddle uses an aramid carbon fiber face that is more durable than raw carbon and that the foam absorbs more vibration.
★ Another foam core paddle: I was also pretty impressed with the Selkirk Labs 008, a new foam core paddle from the maker of our top pick for most people above. The 008 has a more traditional feel and a smaller but more poppy sweet spot. Because this paddle uses a T700 raw carbon fiber instead of more durable aramid carbon fiber, I fear the face will lose its effectiveness even when the core remains solid.
Florida-based pet food and product online retailer Chewy has been around for less than 15 years but has quickly become a popular source for everything pet-related. Chewy even has supplies for farm animals, reptiles, fish, and more, carrying over 3,500 brands, including everything from food to medicine to toys. My cat is constantly throwing up (same) and requires Hill’s Sensitive Skin and Stomach, which costs roughly as much as my car insurance every month. I use WIRED’s Chewy coupons to save money so I can spring for the 50-cent instant ramen while she can remain vomit-free. Browse our roundup of verified Chewy promo codes and special offers on Autoship and pharmacy orders, BOGO deals, and more.
Get $20 Off Sitewide With Today’s Chewy Promo Codes
If you’ve been wanting to see if Chewy is right for you, now’s the time to try. First-time users can get a $20 eGift card when they purchase over $49 on their first order at Chewy. Use Chewy promo code WELCOME at checkout to save and see if Chewy’s discounted prices and scheduled auto-ship works for your (and your pet’s) needs. Some exclusions apply. If you’ve never placed an order with their Pharmacy, use Chewy coupon code RX20 at checkout to save 20% on prescription essentials like Simparica Trio, NexGard Plus, Heartgard, and more pet medications.
If you’re a returning customer, don’t fret—you can get $20 off orders of $49 or more with Chewy coupon code GIFT20OFF. Plus, Chewy has rotating deals on a myriad of pet essentials and supplies, like flea guard, treats, litter, toys, and more.Plus, you can get an extra $5 off on the first order made through the Chewy app with promo code APP. You’ll just need to download the app, and input the above code in the box on the checkout screen for $5 off.
Get Sitewide Chewy Free Shipping
New customers can also get free 1-3 day delivery on first-time orders over $35, which seriously helps in cutting down the convenience cost of being able to get your 40-lb litter box to your third-floor apartment without having to lug it on the L train yourself (speaking from experience, don’t endure what I’ve had to). Get the convenience without having to pay for it with Chewy coupons for free delivery on all items.
Save 50% With Chewy Coupons and Summer Pet Deals
Already a devoted pet-parent/Chewy member? While often the best Chewy promo codes are reserved for first-time customers, existing customers can score daily deals like buy 3, get 1 free offers on toys. Make sure to stay tuned here, because while our top Chewy promo codes unlock over 20% off, there’s more to look forward to., Expect discount codes still to come like 50% off premium dog and cat food, up to $100 off, an easy price to hit when you’re grabbing pet essentials (not to mention I’ll spend any amount to not lug around boxes of concrete clay litter in the pits of hell, aka the subway in the summer). Surprisingly, some deals don’t require you to apply a code or lift a finger. When you set up an Autoship subscription on products you’ll get 35% off your first order, and up to 50% off featured pet food brands; along with an additional 5% off all future deliveries.
How to Use a Chewy Promo Code
Once you’ve found the Chewy promo code that is the best fit for you and your furry friend, copy the code from above and paste into the box at checkout to watch the savings roll (and sit and stay) in. Check back often for our constantly rotating Chewy promo code and other ways to save on those important, but sometimes expensive, pet essentials.
Save on our Favorite Chewy Tech Products
I’m sort of the cat tech guru around here, and have tested a myriad of the best pet tech like automatic feeders and automatic litter boxes, and I have some very strong opinions about which are worth the money (or not). I’m currently using—erm, my cats are using—the Litter-Robot 4 automatic litter box, and although it’s pricey, this box has changed my life. Gone are the days of foul smells, scooping, and pouring litter. This little machine does all the dirty work for you so that you can spend more time on cuddles. I also own the LEVOIT Core Pet Care Air Purifier which has been a game changer for me living in a cramped apartment with two giant cats—it really helps to dissipate any smells, pet hair or pesky dander. I feel like my house overall feels more clean because of this small powerhouse machine. When I transition from WFH I’m going to invest in this inexpensive camera, INSTACHEW Purrsight 360 Degree Wi-Fi Security Pet Camera, to keep an eye on the goings on and shenanigans while I’m at work.
