Consumers Digest built a reputation over decades for cutting through marketing hype and identifying products that delivered real value. While the publication is no longer active, its Best Buy framework — balancing performance, reliability, and price — remains one of the most sensible ways to shop. These five picks across popular categories apply that same thinking to what is available today.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 (6 qt) | Kitchen versatility, meal prep | 4.8/5 |
| Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro | Multi-surface floor cleaning | 4.7/5 |
| Black+Decker 20V MAX Drill/Driver | DIY home repairs, beginners | 4.6/5 |
| Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger | Travel, multiple device charging | 4.5/5 |
| AmazonBasics Microwave (0.7 cu ft) | Compact kitchens, budget-friendly | 4.4/5 |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 — Best Kitchen Appliance Value
Few kitchen products have maintained the consistency and popularity of the Instant Pot Duo. As a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, saute pan, yogurt maker, and warmer in one, it eliminates the need for multiple appliances. The 6-quart size fits most household needs, and the stainless-steel inner pot is dishwasher safe. At it consistently appears on value-conscious buying guides, and its massive community of users means recipes and troubleshooting help are always one search away. A clear Best Buy in the original sense of the term.
Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro — Best Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner
The CrossWave Pet Pro vacuums and washes hard floors simultaneously, cutting cleaning time in half for pet owners. It handles hardwood, tile, laminate, and area rugs with a single pass, and the tangle-free brush roll design reduces pet hair wrap-around significantly. Bissell’s self-cleaning cycle keeps the brush and tray fresh between uses. Atcurrent pricing it is a meaningful investment, but it replaces both a mop and a vacuum for hard-floor areas, making the value case strong for homes with multiple surfaces and shedding pets.
Black+Decker 20V MAX Drill/Driver — Best Budget Power Tool
For homeowners who need a reliable drill without committing to a full contractor-grade system, Black+Decker’s 20V MAX line is a consistent Best Buy candidate. The drill offers 24 position clutch settings, a keyless chuck, and enough torque for assembling furniture, hanging shelves, and light woodworking. The 20V lithium-ion battery charges in under an hour and is compatible across the Black+Decker 20V system, so one battery works across multiple tools. At with battery included, this is genuine value for casual DIYers.
Anker PowerCore 26800 — Best Portable Charger
Anker has become the benchmark for portable charger reliability at accessible prices. The PowerCore 26800 packs enough capacity to charge most smartphones six or more times, with dual USB-A ports and a USB-C port for simultaneous charging of multiple devices. Build quality is solid, charging is stable, and Anker’s customer support is consistently rated above category average. For travelers, commuters, or anyone who depends on mobile devices through long days, this is a low-risk, high-value pick at.
AmazonBasics Microwave — Best Compact Budget Microwave
The AmazonBasics 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a stripped-down, competent appliance for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and offices. Alexa voice control is built in for Amazon Echo households, but it works perfectly well without it via a simple dial interface. Power output is 700 watts, appropriate for reheating and defrosting. Atcurrent pricing this is not a feature-packed microwave, but it does the basics reliably and fits on almost any counter. A textbook Best Buy for renters and minimalists.
How to Choose Products Using the Best Buy Framework
The Consumers Digest approach starts with a clear question: does the product do what it claims, and does the price reflect that performance? Start by identifying what features you actually need versus what is marketing fluff. Compare total cost of ownership (a cheap appliance that breaks in two years costs more than a durable one at twice the price). Look for independent test data, not just star ratings. Finally, consider ecosystem compatibility — power tools, batteries, and smart home devices that share a platform offer more value over time.
For more value-focused picks, see our best kitchen appliances guide. Home repair tools are covered in our best cordless drill article. See our full evaluation approach at /methodology.
Frequently asked questions
What is Consumers Digest and how are Best Buy ratings assigned?+
Consumers Digest was an independent publication that awarded a Best Buy designation to products that offered strong value relative to their price in a given category. Ratings were based on a combination of editorial testing, lab results, and price comparisons. The designation has been widely referenced by retailers and manufacturers as a mark of independent quality recognition.
Are Consumers Digest Best Buy ratings still relevant in 2026?+
Consumers Digest ceased publication in 2020, so newer products cannot receive the original designation. However, the evaluation framework -- prioritizing value, reliability, and tested performance -- remains a useful lens for comparing products today. The picks in this article apply those same criteria to current bestsellers and independently reviewed products.