; but the paper test strip used here can get soggy. All you have to do is carefully handle it, and you should be good to go. Or for the clumsy ones out there, stick to one of the tests above. Another unique feature of this test is its low price; most tests usually cost around $35 per test, but the Quidel test costs only $24 for two tests, which saves you up to 30 percent. ProsPre-filled solution vialsNo mixing requiredLow priceConsPaper test strip can get soggy$24 at QuidelShopify$24 at Amazon$24 at RiteAid
At present, new strains of COVID-19 and a surge in flu cases in seven US states have made it alarmingly clear that it is more than just festive gatherings that define this season. Apart from holiday celebrations, the winter months also bring flu season and a spike in respiratory diseases, such as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Since these diseases present symptoms that closely resemble those of COVID, having an at-home COVID test can provide a quick and accurate way to confirm the presence of the virus.
At-home COVID tests differ in terms of administration, age approval, results timeline, and testing kit size. The FDA lists more than forty emergency-use approved at-home COVID tests from over thirty different brands. While some tests provide results in just 15 minutes, others may require samples to be sent to a lab for screening. PCR tests are generally more reliable with an average accuracy rate of 95%, while at-home antigen tests have about an 80% accuracy rate. It is crucial to use only FDA-authorized at-home COVID-19 tests, advises Dr. Minji Kang, an infectious disease specialist.
To help in choosing the best at-home COVID test, we consulted four experts and evaluated over 42 tests based on criteria such as cost, ease of use, collection method, age approval, and results timeline. Here are our top picks for the best at-home COVID tests.
1. Flowflex
Cost: $8 for a single test kit; $14 for a two-test kit; $32 for a five-test kit
Number of tests included: 1, 2 or 5 tests
Collection method: Nasal swab
Steps To Results: 5
Time to results: 15 minutes
The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is the first and only at-home COVID test cleared by the FDA’s premarket review pathway. It has successfully passed rigorous testing and is approved and backed by the FDA’s gold standards. The test correctly identifies 89.8% of positive and 99.3% of negative samples in individuals with signs and symptoms of upper respiratory infection. The kit offers flexibility with options for one, two, or five tests and has a shelf life of 24 months. The test is easy to use, requiring only five steps and produces results in just 15 minutes.
2. LabCorp
Cost: $129
Number of tests included: 1
Collection method: Nasal swab
Steps to Results: 6
Time to results: 1-2 days after lab receipt
The Pixel test by Labcorp stands out as the only test of its kind to screen for Flu, RSV, and COVID using a self-administered test. Anthony Ognjan, a board-certified osteopathic physician specializing in infectious diseases, emphasizes the importance of such comprehensive testing due to the evolving nature of the virus, which now affects the upper airways more than the lungs. The test is shipped directly to your home and results are available within 1-2 days after lab receipt.
3. Orasure
Cost: $18
Number of tests included: 2
Collection method: Nasal swab
Steps to Results: 3
Time to results: 30 minutes
The rapid test from InteliSwab simplifies the testing process with only three steps and pre-mixed solution, making it easy to use. The test is approved for children as young as 2 years old.
4. Quidel
Cost: $24
Number of tests included: 2
Collection method: Nasal swab
Step to results: 4
Time to results: 10 minutes
The Quidel at-home COVID test offers quick results, pre-filled solution vials, and a low price of $24 for two tests. However, the paper test strip used in the kit may require careful handling.
By weighing the unique features and factors of these top at-home COVID tests, individuals can make informed decisions about which test suits their needs best.
