Daniel Wroclawski
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Articles by Daniel Wroclawski
5 Best Outdoor Refrigerators of 2026, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
If you have an outdoor kitchen or simply want more convenient food storage by your grill, an outdoor refrigerator can be a great addition to your backyard setup. These specialized fridges are designed to withstand extreme temperature changes, and some are even water-resistant. Our lab testing shows that outdoor refrigerators tend to be noisier and less energy-efficient than their indoor counterparts.
Best Garage Ready Refrigerators of 2026, Lab-Tested by Our Experts
We tested fridges at their coldest setting for at least four days in a 110° F chamber to find the best performers June 5, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. The best garage fridges are simple to use, energy-efficient, and built to withstand extreme temperatures.
Ajustes de privacidad y seguridad de Ring que debes revisar
Desde la app de Ring puedes controlar las solicitudes de video de la policía, manejar la nueva función Search Party, activar el cifrado de extremo a extremo y mucho más. Los ajustes de Ring te permiten controlar las Solicitudes de la comunidad, Search Party, Vecinos y otras funciones, así como ajustar tu configuración de seguridad.
¿Las autoridades federales pueden acceder videos de tu timbre Ring?
Con los nuevos socios de Ring, todavía puedes limitar el acceso a tus videos de Ring, o elegir otros productos que te den control total. Si bien CR recomienda algunas cámaras Ring, hay alternativas que lograron mejores resultados en nuestras evaluaciones, para los consumidores que desean tener un mayor control. By Daniel Wroclawski Actualización: Ring anunció el 12 de febrero de 2026 que cancelaba su asociación con Flock “tras una revisión exhaustiva”.
Ring Privacy and Security Settings You Should Check Right Now - Consumer Reports
Through the Ring app, you can control video requests from law enforcement and the new Search Party feature, turn on end-to-end encryption, and more February 13, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Ring settings allow you to control Community Requests, Search Party, Neighbors, and other features, and adjust your security settings.
Best Refrigerator Brands of 2026 - Consumer Reports
Who makes the best refrigerators? GE? LG? Whirlpool? CR's lab, survey, and pricing data show that the answer depends on the type. Updated February 10, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. CR rates hundreds of today's refrigerators, using lab and survey data. The results help us pick the best refrigerator brands in every configuration and style.
Dishwasher cycles downloaded: Which one to use, and when
Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission. Not sure which dishwasher cycle to use? With options like “Normal,” “Eco,” “Sanitize,” and “Sensor,” it’s hard to know which setting actually fits your load. Instead of digging up the manual, here’s what each dishwasher cycle means—and how to choose the right one for cleaner dishes, better drying, and smarter energy use.
The Aqara Smart Lock U400 Detects When You Get Home, and Unlocks Itself—Hands-Free - Consumer Reports
I’ve experienced the future of smart locks, and I never want to go back Updated January 6, 2026 I've been evaluating the Aqara Smart Lock U400 on my own front door, and it's the most convenient smart lock I've ever used. Photo: Daniel Wroclawski/Consumer Reports For the past two weeks, I’ve been unlocking my front door without ever touching a keypad, fingerprint reader, smartphone, or physical key, thanks to a new smart lock.
5 Best Dash Cams of 2026, Tested by Our Experts
We test dash cams from brands such as Redtiger, Rove, and Viofo by evaluating their video and audio quality, versatility, and ease of installation Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. CR tested dash cams from brands including (clockwise from top left) Redtiger, Rove, Rexing, Nextbase, and Viofo.
5 Best Combination Coffee Makers of 2026, Tested by Experts
These versatile brewers from CR’s tests can make espresso, lattes, iced coffee, and more When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. From brands like Instant and Nespresso, these are the best combination coffee makers that make espressos, iced coffees, and standard coffees, too. Photo: Burak Karademir/iStock Want a coffee maker that can brew more than a regular cup of joe?
4 Best Wine Fridges, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
Consumer Reports’ tests reveal the best freestanding and undercounter wine fridges from New Air, Antarctic Star, Koolatron, and Kalamera When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Alongside their varied performance, wine fridges vary drastically in price—some cost less than $200 while others cost more than $500.
5 Best Cold-Brew Coffee Makers of 2026, Lab Tested and Reviewed
Consumer Reports’ tests reveal the top automatic and manual models Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Our expert technicians and tasters evaluated seven cold-brew coffee makers—including those from popular brands like (from left) KitchenAid, Asobu, and Primula.
Most and Least Reliable Refrigerator Brands of 2026
Consumer Reports’ newest survey results rank refrigerator brands, including GE, LG, Samsung, Sub-Zero, and Whirlpool, for every style of fridge Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. The most common reliability problems for refrigerators involve icemakers and dispensers.
Best Holiday Deals on Tech
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CR's shopping experts help you find great bargains on TVs, laptops, headphones, and more, all month long Updated December 16, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Holiday savings include deals on electronic devices from Amazon, Apple, and Samsung.
By Samantha Gordon Verified, Allen St. John, James Willcox Verified, Courtney Lindwall Verified, Nicholas De Leon Verified, Daniel Wroclawski Verified
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Consumer Reports
Verified
21 Great Gifts for Coffee Lovers
Whether they prefer sipping foamy lattes, a cold brew, or a rich espresso, these thoughtful presents will fit the bill Updated November 25, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. We found some of the best-performing and most pleasing-to-use coffee accessories, including milk frothers, bean grinders, and mugs that will keep coffee extra hot.
15 Best Home Security Cameras of 2026, Lab-Tested and Reviewed - Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports tests security cameras and doorbell cameras for data privacy, security, video quality, and more Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Keep your home safe with one of CR’s top-rated wireless security cameras, including models from Arlo, Blink, and Eufy.
6 Best Floodlight Cameras of 2026, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
These security cameras light up the night and are made by some of the most popular home security brands, including Blink, Eufy, and Lorex Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. CR's home security expert Daniel Wroclawski installs a floodlight camera over his garage. The best models provide great video quality and send alerts quickly.
9 Best Outdoor Security Cameras of 2026, Lab-Tested and Reviewed - Consumer Reports
Top outdoor security cameras from brands including Arlo, Eufy, and TP-Link are weather-resistant and can be mounted almost anywhere Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. The best outdoor security cameras include models from Lorex (left), Arlo (top right), and Eufy (bottom right).
21 Great Gifts for Coffee Lovers - Consumer Reports
Whether they prefer sipping foamy lattes, a cold brew, or a rich espresso, these thoughtful presents will fit the bill Updated October 27, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. We found some of the best-performing and most pleasing-to-use coffee accessories, including milk frothers, bean grinders, and mugs that will keep coffee extra hot.
Ring Is Again Letting Police Request User Videos Through Its Neighbors App - Consumer Reports
The new tool, Community Requests, closely resembles a controversial program canceled in 2024 September 8, 2025 Police departments can quickly ask Ring security camera owners in a particular neighborhood for access to their videos. Source: Ring Last week, Amazon home security brand Ring quietly rolled out a program called Community Requests to help police obtain videos captured with Ring security cameras.
Best Cheap Appliances - Consumer Reports
If you're willing to skip the bells and whistles, you can find a high-performing dishwasher, fridge, or washer at a delightfully low price. Here, inexpensive picks that impressed in CR's tests. August 7, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Searching for appliances that get the job done without breaking the bank? You've come to the right place.
Best Deals on Smart Home Devices
There are some good sales on top-rated smart thermostats, security cameras, and more When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Photo: Getty Images Whether you’re looking for a smart bulb, smart plug, or smart thermostat, you may be able to find a good price on a great model.
Best Deals on Smart Home Devices
There are some good sales on top-rated smart thermostats, video doorbells, security cameras, and more When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Photo Illustration: Consumer Reports, Getty Images Whether you’re looking for a smart bulb, smart plug, or smart thermostat, you may be able to find a good price on a great model.
4 Best Smart AC Controllers of 2026, Tested By Our Experts
Remotely control your AC with our top picks from Boldr, Cielo, Mysa, and Sensibo Updated January 1, 2026 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Controllers like this one from Mysa can be used with many window air conditioners and mini-splits.
Best Energy-Efficient Refrigerators
These top-rated refrigerator models from GE, LG, Samsung, and Sub-Zero are good for your wallet and the planet Updated March 24, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. We calculate the annual energy cost for every refrigerator that goes through our labs to help you shop for great-performing models that are energy- and cost-efficient.
Best Home Security Systems of 2025 Original
We surveyed over 11,000 security system, security camera, and video doorbell owners to find the best options for your money March 17, 2025 The best home security systems work reliably, and are easy to set up and use. Photo: Getty Images Choosing a home security system is anything but simple.
20 Great Gifts for Coffee Lovers
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How Smart Appliances Could Expose You to Hacking Risks
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How Smart Appliances Could Expose You to Hacking Risks - Consumer Reports
Big appliances can last for years after software security updates have stopped November 18, 2024 A connected device with software vulnerabilities could put your WiFi network and everything on it at risk. GIF: Consumer Reports, Getty Images Have you bought a new refrigerator, oven, washing machine, or other big appliance in the past few years? If so, there’s a good chance it can connect to the internet through your WiFi network.
18 Best Kitchen Appliances of 2024, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
Daniel Wroclawski November 8, 2024 at 9:10 AM·4 min read We’ve found the best ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, and more through in-depth testing The best ranges, refrigerators, and dishwashers make cooking, storing, and cleaning in your kitchen a breeze.
12 Best Home Security Cameras of 2024, Lab-Tested and Reviewed
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Best Coffee Makers of 2024
Whatever kind of coffee you like, there’s a great machine out there for you—and it doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, one of the highest-rated, CR-recommended drip coffee makers in our tests costs less than $40. But you can also find machines with plenty of bells and whistles, like coffee makers with interactive displays and stainless steel detailing. Those machines may be pricier—some cost upward of $200.
Best Early Black Friday Deals on Refrigerators
The holiday season is a great time to invest in a new fridge and get a great price Consumer Reports brings you the best refrigerator deals ahead of Black Friday. By Daniel Wroclawski, Samantha B. Gordon Black Friday is the best time to buy a new refrigerator, with prices typically hitting their lowest points for the year. And the deals have already started, so you don’t have to wait until the end of the month to shop and save. Advertisement But a good price doesn’t mean it’s a good refrigerator.
Best smoke and carbon monoxide detectors of 2024
The ability to sense carbon monoxide (CO) with a smoke and CO detector can mean the difference between life and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 Americans die from accidental CO poisoning every year and more than 100,000 require emergency care.
Best Indoor Air Quality Monitors of 2024
Daniel Wroclawski October 24, 2024 at 1:23 PM·5 min read We evaluated monitors from Airthings, Amazon, Awair, Inkbird, Qingping, Temtop, and uHoo. The best models detect a range of indoor pollutants and work with air purifiers and other smart devices. The top models from CR's tests detect a range of indoor pollutants and work with air purifiers and other smart devices.
Top Picks in Kitchen Essentials for 2024
From Breville toasters to Vitamix blenders, these are the appliances and cooking gear that aced our tests—and wowed our experts—this year Some of our Kitchen Top Picks for 2024 (from left): Oxo salad spinner, Cuisinart drip coffee maker, Ninja blender, Breville toaster oven, and KitchenAid hand mixer. By Tanya A. Christian, Paul Hope, Deb Silber, Daniel Wroclawski Great kitchen gear won’t turn you into a Michelin-starred chef, but it will make for easier meal prep.
Top Picks in Kitchen Essentials for 2024
From Breville toasters to Vitamix blenders, these are the appliances and cooking gear that aced our tests—and wowed our experts—this year October 24, 2024 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Some of our Kitchen Top Picks for 2024 (from left): Oxo salad spinner, Cuisinart drip coffee maker, Ninja blender, Breville toaster oven, and KitchenAid hand mixer.
El peligro en el polvo
Lo que flota en el aire de tu casa podría ser dañino para tu salud. Aquí te mostramos cómo mantener tu hogar limpio y seguro. By Kevin Loria, Daniel Wroclawski Cuando un rayo de sol ilumina de manera perfecta, los ves: pequeñas partículas de polvo suspendidas en el aire. Parecen inofensivas, hasta que te detienes a pensar en cómo se acumulan en todas las superficies de tu casa.
We've Lab-Tested Hundreds of Refrigerators. These Are the 12 Best Fridges of 2024.
See top performers for every style—from French-door fridges to built-in models to mini fridges—from brands such as Dacor, GE, LG, Samsung, and Sub-Zero There’s a refrigerator configuration to suit every household. French-door models like this one are extremely popular. By Daniel Wroclawski The refrigerator lab at Consumer Reports is always busy.
Best Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors of 2024
Courtney Lindwall, Daniel Wroclawski September 17, 2024 at 5:14 AM·3 min read Consumer Reports' lab tests reveal the best models for protecting you and your loved ones CR's engineers use high flames to see whether smoke detectors respond appropriately. By Courtney Lindwall, Daniel Wroclawski The ability to sense carbon monoxide (CO) with a smoke and CO detector can mean the difference between life and death.
Best Side-by-Side Refrigerators of 2024
Daniel Wroclawski September 16, 2024 at 2:00 AM·3 min read Easy access to fresh food and freezer compartments makes these top-performing models appealing Side-by-side refrigerators, with their tall and narrow compartments, work well for small kitchens and often need less electricity to operate. By Daniel Wroclawski Updated by Daniel Bortz and Kala Herh Side-by-sides were once the refrigerator style Americans favored.
Best Built-In Refrigerators of 2024
Daniel Wroclawski September 9, 2024 at 5:46 AM·4 min read CR’s tests reveal the best models from Café, Dacor, JennAir, Sub-Zero, Thermador, and Viking Built-in refrigerators offer a designer look, but they often cost more than freestanding fridges. By Daniel Wroclawski Built-in refrigerators take center stage in the most refined kitchens, even if you don’t spot them immediately.
How to Pick a Home Security System
Purchasing a home security system once required having a technician come into your house to punch holes in your walls, then snake wires to every door and window sensor. But today’s systems are wireless and therefore much easier to install. Some homeowners still opt for professional installation, but many choose to install their own systems. There are now lots of DIY-oriented companies to choose from, including Abode, Amazon-owned Ring, Cove, Eufy, Kangaroo, Roku, SimpliSafe, and Wyze.
Las marcas de refrigeradores más y menos confiables
Los últimos resultados de la encuesta de Consumer Reports cubren marcas como Frigidaire, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool y otras. Y pueden ayudarte a evitar reparaciones molestas. Los problemas con las máquinas de hielo y los dispensadores fueron los más frecuentes en las encuestas de Consumer Reports. By Daniel Wroclawski Cuando compras un refrigerador nuevo, puedes esperar que dure aproximadamente una década.
Should You Buy a Samsung Bespoke Fridge?
CR’s tests of over a dozen Bespoke refrigerators reveal strong day-to-day performance. But time will tell if they’re more reliable than traditional Samsung French-door and side-by-side models. Updated May 30, 2025 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. With MyBespoke Custom Panels, you can display anything from artwork to family photos on a Samsung Bespoke fridge.
Best Refrigerators Without a Water and Ice Dispenser or an Icemaker
Daniel Wroclawski August 26, 2024 at 10:59 AM·3 min read These refrigerators maximize storage space and forgo features that tend to break To avoid common problems with a fridge’s water dispenser and icemaker, you may want to consider a model that doesn’t offer either. By Daniel Wroclawski Updated by Daniel Bortz and Justin Krajeski Refrigerators with a water dispenser, a water and ice dispenser, or an icemaker are popular, but those features often underperform.
Best Home Security Systems Without a Subscription
Daniel Wroclawski August 23, 2024 at 7:08 AM·3 min read CR's security-system picks include models from Abode, Arlo, Eufy, Kangaroo, and Roku Many security systems offer optional subscriptions for professional monitoring. By Daniel Wroclawski Updated by Justin Krajeski Home security systems can feel out of reach financially. Many of them require you to pay monthly for professional monitoring, where dispatchers keep an eye on your system and alert the authorities in the event of a break-in.
Best Amazon Prime Day Smart Home Deals on Smart Thermostats, Smart Locks, and More - Consumer Reports
Get ready for big savings on smart tech for your home Updated July 16, 2024 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Illustration: Consumer Reports/Getty Images Amazon’s Prime Day is finally here.
The Danger in Your Dust
What's floating in your home's air could be harmful to your health. Here's how to keep your place clean—and safe. July 3, 2024 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. Photo: Getty Images When a sunbeam hits just right, you see them: tiny particles of dust suspended in the air.
Lutron Caséta Smart Switches Are the Most Reliable Devices in My Smart Home - Consumer Reports
I’ve owned them for over four years, and unlike most of my smart devices, they’ve never let me down May 30, 2024 When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more. The author's loyal, steadfast, no-fuss Lutron Pico light switch.
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