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After several hours of research, I made my selection of the 7 best sit-stand desks (standing desk) among forty models currently available on the market. I have a personal preference for the Flexispot M2B if you are looking for a one screen configuration. But for a two-screen sit-stand desk, I definitely recommend the Apexdesk ZT series . If you wish to acquire a sit-stand desk but you do not know how to go about it in your research, I invite you to consult my buying guide at the end of the article.

The best cheap sit-stand desks

In this first category, I eliminated several very inexpensive models which did not offer the stability required for your equipment.

Suddenly, the models I offer here are guaranteed of good material quality and good stability, and do an excellent job if you respect the maximum authorized load mass. And this without breaking the bank.

Halter Ed 600 : the best cheap

The first sit-stand desk in my selection is one of the cheapest, but it has great features and design.

Robust and elegant, it has the advantage of being delivered all assembled. Its look is rather nice, and it is available in white, black or cherry, to best adapt to your environment. My personal preference goes however to the cherry, which I find warmer.

Its lines are very rounded, and its material is quite good. The set is robust and made to last.

It works with hydraulic cylinder / gas spring technology, which gives it great stability even when extended to its maximum. It can thus lift, smoothly and silently, up to 20 kg, which is honorable given the price.

It can raise two screens even if in this case, it will go up significantly slower than with only one. To be honest, it must be said that the hydraulic cylinder technology, if it makes much less noise than electric technology, requires that we support the thrust a little (as is the case for some seats).

Depending on the weight on the desk, this can make an effort. For some, electrical technology may therefore be preferable. But that excepted, the elevation in height of the plate is simple and direct. You just have to engage the two handles of the locking and adjustment mechanism, one to the left and the other to the right of the tray. Many users claim that their back pain has really been relieved thanks to this investment.

Its dimensions are 90 cm wide, 45 cm deep with a lifting capacity of 41 cm, which is sufficient up to 1m90 maximum. If the small tray does not suffer from any major defect preventing its optimal use, its shape could be improved to offer a better distribution.

There are also some negative points. First of all, the two handles, which allow precise elevation, are located a little too far behind the tray. You must bend down to hold the two handles simultaneously and lift the entire desk. We can’t say it’s top ergonomically. If it remains feasible with one screen, it becomes more difficult with two. The other flaw is the reduced space for the mouse.

But despite these small gaps, this model is excellent value for money. Its robustness (which is often lacking in entry-level standing desks) makes it a safe bet, and it’s a good investment for a first sit-stand desk.

Ergoneer : the ideal sit-stand desk for one screen configuration

This is a very beautiful Standing Desk, with clean lines, very classy. The desk and its mechanism form a solid assembly. It is already assembled in its packaging. No need to break your head, you take it out and put it down.

Like most of its competitors, it has a height level adjustment that changes between 12 cm and 45 cm in a few seconds with levers that are very easy to handle. Thanks to its hydraulic system, the ascent and descent are smooth, and without noise. The sturdy desk is optimized for smooth lifting and lowering, while the maximum load is over 15 kg.

However, the manufacturer claims that it can support 2 screens. However, I do not recommend it: if you calculate the weight of your equipment – including 2 screens – and add a weight of 3 to 5 kg to take into account the pressure exerted by your arms on the desk, there is a good chance that you exceed this weight.

In addition, with its 70 cm wide, it can be a little too narrow for some, depending on the material they need. So remember to measure it, and in particular your screen, before investing in it.

The intelligent “X” structure and hydraulic system provide regular and uniform support during the transition from sitting to standing position. Its frame and structure are securely mounted. Besides, the manufacturer delivers it with a 3-year warranty, which is an indication of confidence in the quality of the equipment offered.

In conclusion, you have a Standing Desk there with all the required qualities. For such a price, one cannot ask for excellence, which it does not have, moreover. But it works well, not surprisingly, and it’s one of the best options for discovering sit-stand desks in typing too high in the budget.

Songmics LSD08B : a standing desk with adjustable and detachable keyboard support

While remaining within a very reasonable price range, the Songmics LSD08B is a sit-stand desk that is perfectly suited to students, even gamers, thanks to its well thought out configuration. And if he does not excel in anything, he is good in everything.

Like most sit-stand desks, the Songmics can accommodate people up to 1.90 m in height. With its rather sober look, it easily finds its place at home as in the office.

It is a desk operating on hydraulic system for the adaptation of its height, and it offers a high quality cylinder. Suddenly, the change of the level of the height is done in a gentle way, but at the same time precise. No unnecessary shaking, you let go of the side handles and the tray immediately and securely locks in the desired location.

The little extra it offers is an adjustable and detachable keyboard support, which brings an extra touch of comfort. It is also one of the important criteria for gamers, who must have access to the keys comfortably in all circumstances.

Its ergonomics are therefore optimal on several levels. Besides, the users are formal: the back problems have really been reduced after a few weeks of use.

On the other hand, there again, contrary to what the manufacturer suggests, it is preferable to stick to a configuration with a screen, since the maximum authorized load is 15 kg. Again, it’s not just about the weight of the material, but also the pressure of your arms. But in a one-screen configuration, it really does its job.

The dimensions of the tray also tend towards a single screen configuration: 80 cm wide by 62 deep. The height, on the other hand, is entirely in line with expectations, going from 12 cm to 46 cm in elevation. Note that, if that was not enough, the LSD06BK version is 95 cm wide by 40 cm deep. I am nevertheless less convinced by its stability, the cross-shaped foot being very offset on the side.

The LSD08B, on the other hand, offers very good general stability thanks to its X-shaped frame. The assembly is quite simple because all you have to do is fix the keyboard support and some wiring.

It is therefore a standing desk which does not lack advantages, especially for this price, and which I warmly recommend to anyone who does not have an excess of material to put on his desk. It is just unfortunate that the nobility of the materials is lacking a little (especially at the level of the coating, which is easily scratched).

The best mid-range sit-stand desks

The models offered in this second section benefit from technological innovations in terms of ergonomics and assembly at extremely competitive prices compared to their functionalities.

Flexispot M2B : the best mid-range

Those who wish to transform their current office or workspace into a Standing Desk and integrate a standing station should consider seriously considering the Flexispot M2B. Of course, it represents a certain investment, but it is definitely a safe bet.

It is also my favorite standing desk in this selection, thanks to its reliability, its rock-solid stability and its advanced ergonomics.

First of all, it should be emphasized that its look, with its rounded shapes and its worked coating (black or white), is rather nice.

The pneumatic gas cylinder system is very fluid and allows the workstation to deploy very smoothly, very easily. There is absolutely no need to force, you just need to operate a handle, on the right side, under the table. No fear of falling, whether for your PC or your coffee.

If it is not delivered fully assembled, assembly should not take you more than 10 minutes. We just fix the keyboard, a plastic cover on the bottom rail, and voila.

It has dimensions rather well suited to any type of situation, with 89 cm wide, 78 cm deep and 15 cm high (not deployed). Once deployed, it reaches 50 cm, which is the greatest height of my selection. It has 12 height adjustment positions, and should be perfectly suitable for anyone up to around 1.95m.

On the other hand, if it has a major defect, it is at the level of its maximum authorized load: 16 kg. So it excels in a one screen configuration, but I don’t recommend it again if you have two. In the latter case, I would rather direct you to the Apexdesk ZT Series or the Flexispot M4B, which I will tell you about next.

Apexdesk ZT series : the best configuration for two screens

It is the standing desk of my selection most recently released on the market, since it dates from 2018.

Design side first, I find it pretty well worked, and it makes me strongly think of the Flexispot. Currently, it is very difficult to get it in Europe in a color other than black, but if you have the opportunity, I recommend the “hazelnut” version, which has a wood coating of the most beautiful effect.

At the reception, simply remove it from its box and install it on your desk. There, that’s about it !

It is again a motorized gas spring system, offering an adjustment height of 14.5 to 46 cm. Again, it’s in the standards. On the other hand, its work surface is a little larger, with a width of 91.4 cm and a depth of 61 cm, which allows you rather easily to opt for a configuration with two screens, especially since the load maximum authorized of 20 kg allows it (well, of course, it always depends on your screens!).

The little extra offered by this model is the USB slot that it integrates, which allows you to easily charge your smartphone, for example. We know how often the USB ports are insufficient when working with many materials!

Honestly, this standing desk constitutes an excellent value for money, since it is the first of my selection to truly allow a configuration with two screens, with quality materials (even if it seems less robust than the Flexispot), and this for a very reasonable price. It only needs a little more life to see what it is really worth in use. But it seems to me to be an excellent option.

FLEXISPOT M4B : a corner model

I have already presented the Flexispot M2B, with which it has many common points, if only at the level of design and material quality. But the M4B still has some differences, which make it a completely separate option.

First of all, it should be noted that this is the first (and only) corner desk of my selection. It is delivered almost entirely assembled, but it remains to fix the keyboard platform. A pledge of additional ergonomics, the Flexispot includes four cable organizers to route these. It is quite rare to emphasize this.

As with the M2B, it is very easy to adjust the height of the Flexispot desk. 12 levels of adjustment are available from 12 to 48 cm, but you just have to release the handles at the desired height so that the tray locks automatically and securely.

Its hydraulic gas suspension system really allows you to adjust the desk smoothly, even under full load. But again, it is a pity that the maximum authorized load is limited to 15 kg. Even if the configuration of the desktop itself seems ideal for installing two monitors, it is strongly advised to check the weight of these!

Another complaint is that the mouse space is a little tight for placing a standard mouse pad.

In the end, I think it remains a great option, especially at this price. It is a standing desk that I highly recommend to those who need an angled space configuration. Its material quality means that you will keep it for many years, which pays off its price … As long as you do not exceed the maximum authorized load, of course!

The best high-end sit-stand desk

The high-end and professional standing desk still have a little trouble making their way into the European market. But among the rare survivors, I managed to find you an excellent model which, without surprise, is signed by the prestigious brand which launched the sit-stand office market, Varidesk.

Varidesk Pro Plus 36 : the best high-end

Gemmy Industries is a company in its thirties and it was its employees who first felt the need for a cheap sit-stand solution for one of their colleagues. Varidesk was therefore founded on the idea of ​​providing a quick, easy and affordable way for everyone to stand at their desk. The success was immediate and massive, which allowed the brand to develop worldwide, with an increasing number of design and product patents.

If the brand is slowly starting to suffer from competition, it nevertheless remains at the forefront, with certain quality products like this Varidesk Pro Plus 36.

One of its first big pluses is that it comes fully assembled. It is adjustable in height on 11 levels. It is one less than the Flexispot but it remains very good. And if it is necessary to support the movement a little more than with its competitor, it remains very reasonable and ergonomics is absolutely not affected.

The Pro Plus 36 is extremely stable in the low position. On the other hand, users have noticed a slight balance effect in the maximum high position, when typing a little too forcefully on the keyboard. It’s a bit of a shame considering the price of the product. The main thing is to distribute the weights well on the surface, as much as possible – a nuisance that a cross design could have avoided.

The viewing distance from the monitor is good and well within the standard of the recommendations. Namely, for example, that for a 27 inch screen, you should be at a distance of 50cm to 1m. The other point is that the upper tray is very wide in surface and that its pronounced cut allows finally to place a laptop on the keyboard tray easily. For those who need such a configuration, it is the very great advantage of this model, which will justify its acquisition.

However, again, I regret a maximum authorized load of 15.8 kg. It is hardly more than the Flexispot, but less than the Apexdesk. If you are interested in this model but the maximum weight was not enough, then I recommend the Varidesk Pro Plus 48 , which can support it up to 20 kg, with dimensions which go from 91.4 x 68.1 cm to 129.5 x 85.9 cm (so you need room for the machine!).

In the end, it is a very good sit-stand desk, with an interesting configuration, especially if you use a laptop. However, I’m not sure it is really worth the price difference compared to mid-range models.

What is certain in any case is that its material quality suffers from no defect, and that you are gone for many years of use with this model. Besides, the brand does not hesitate to offer a 5 year warranty. After all, it may be here that the price difference is justified.

The products of my selection on sale for now

How to choose your sit-stand desk?

Increasingly, the concept of well-being at work is gaining momentum in our society. This goes of course through mental well-being, but also through physical well-being.

This is why, in close partnership with research in the field of risk prevention and ergonomics, the designers of sit-stand desks (or standing desks) have developed tools intended to put movement in the life of office and correct bad postures.

As often, this furious trend of Standing Desk comes from across the Atlantic. There, researchers consider that sitting – increasingly present in our society through our lifestyle – is one of the biggest threats to health today.

Research shows that we can reduce our risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and back pain by simply changing our lifestyle, reducing the time we spend sitting.

If you too want to get started but do not know where to start, here are some tips that can guide you in choosing a standing desk.

Ergonomics

The ergonomics of your sit-stand desk is probably the first factor to take into account, since this is precisely the purpose of acquiring one of these machines.

Obviously, this office must therefore be comfortable and easy to use. The handle for lifting, among other things, must be perfectly accessible and allow you to change position without thinking about it. Indeed, if your standing desk is particularly difficult to adjust, you lose all the benefit of the machine, and certainly your motivation to use it.

Quality and assembly

Materials and build quality must be considered. These will indeed affect both the life of your desk and its ergonomics.

Certainly, it can be tempting to invest in certain so-called miraculous devices which cost, for example, only around thirty euros. But more often than not, they turn out to be so fragile that there is a big risk that your computer will end up on the floor. It is therefore really recommended not to balk at the quality in this area.

As for the assembly, if it is true that many standing desks arrive all assembled and only have to be placed on the desk, you will still sometimes have some assemblies to perform, especially for the wiring trays, etc. .

The adjustment height

Check carefully how far the device can go. In general, most can bring the platform to 1.25 m, which is enough for a person of 1.90 m to work standing. But if you measure 2m10, there is very little to bet in this case that you often use the standing position without suffering from back pain.

The work surface

Remember to check the dimensions of the desk according to the surface you need. You obviously won’t have the same needs if you only use one laptop or use two screens, for example.

The maximum authorized load

If your office is well loaded, check the load of what you will have to lift and if the Standing Desk that appeals to you has sufficient capacity.

Generally, the weight supported varies between 9 and 25 kg. And think about it: to the weight of the equipment, you should always add about 5 kg, which is the pressure exerted by your arms and hands.

The noise level

The question of the level of noise emitted by the device should also be considered, especially if you work in a very quiet office and have the firm intention of remaining friends with all your colleagues.

The adjustment device

There are several types of adjustment devices. I nevertheless recommend automatic adjustment devices, because with a manual method, as simple as it is to carry out, the addition of the gestures to operate can quickly become a deterrent and make you lose all the benefit of your investment.

Among the automatic devices is the electrical adjustment. It is the most common, but also one of the loudest. A sound level of 60 to 70 decibels, multiplied x times during the day and by x desks in the room, this can unfortunately calm the ardors of the most motivated.

An interesting alternative is the hydraulic adjustment, with a silent and often very powerful cylinder. It is usually enough to keep pressing the adjustment button until you reach the desired height, and voila.

After several hours of research, we have preselected thirty models, among which the hJh Office Ergohuman has established itself as a leader. Its excellent support, its modularity, and its headrest make it an office chair usable in a professional setting.

Why trust us

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products in order to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles are sponsored. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining completely impartial.

How did we choose?

Since you are likely to spend several hours per day perched on your office chair, it is essential to choose a model adapted to your needs and your morphology in order to best avoid the evils associated with poor posture. However, there is such a diversity of different articles that it can sometimes be difficult to make an informed choice.

In order to enlighten you, we have gathered the essential information to know before any purchase. 

First of all, you will need to check the adjustability of the envisaged model:

• Height adjustment : it is necessary in order to adjust the seat height to that of your desk as well as the length of your legs. Most often, this adjustment is made using a joystick actuating a gas or hydraulic cylinder, which allows you to adapt everything smoothly, fluidly. Note that for an ideal position, your knees, hips and elbows should be positioned at right angles to the rest of your body. 
• The inclination of the backrest and the seat : if the simple tilting consists of a front-back tilting of the backrest determined by the weight you exercise on it and then be locked in the position that suits you best, the double adjustment allows, as its name suggests, to adjust the backrest and the seat independently. In the synchronous system , there is a simultaneous tilting of the seat towards the front and the backrest towards the rear, so that the body remains “connected” to the chair all along. On other models, the backrest constantly follows the movement of the back for optimal support. 
• Armrest adjustment : the presence of armrests is often beneficial in that it allows you to rest your arms and shoulders during the day, and then limits muscle tension in these places. If they are also adjustable, they will perfectly adapt to your body type. Some, called “3D”, are even adjustable in height, depth and on a radial axis. The rarer 4Ds are moreover adjustable over the width!

Then, it is important to take into consideration certain elements likely to influence your daily comfort:

• Maneuverability : for optimal comfort throughout the day, it is essential to have easy access to the adjustment mechanisms of your seat. If the controls are in the wrong place or difficult to maneuver, there is a good chance that you will quickly give up adjusting your chair to suit your needs at the moment, which can be uncomfortable or even dangerous for your health over the long term. term.
• Size : if it is obvious to think about inquiring about the maximum weight supported by the model of your choice, it can also be interesting to dwell on the width of the seat or the height of the backrest. 
• The materials : if the solidity and quality of the materials are obviously essential, the coating is just as important, well beyond the aesthetic aspect. The fabric is often softer, but tends to stain more quickly. Leather, easy to maintain, is generally considered very comfortable. It is nevertheless more expensive, and is not recommended in case of hot weather. The mesh will allow optimal ventilation, but sometimes limits comfort.

It is with these key elements in mind that we conducted long hours of online research on various sites and blogs specializing in furniture, this in the French and English speaking worlds. 

After preselecting around thirty popular models, we consulted the many consumer reviews to determine which ones are best suited to the greatest number of you. 

Thus, we can present to you our selection of the 4 best office chairs currently available on the European market. 

The best cheap office chairs

If it is possible to find many models offered at a very democratic price, they will rarely be the most ergonomic and equipped chairs on the market. 

We still managed to find two models offering a minimum of adjustability and reasonable comfort. They are particularly suitable for short-term use. 

Amazon Basics : the best cheap

This first model comes from the Basics collection from Amazon, and is therefore not surprisingly extremely simple, which does not prevent it from attracting many consumers. 

It is a low-back wheelchair, designed without armrests. It is very easy to use, and is very practical thanks to its 360 ° pivoting. Thus, you have easy access to all the storage arranged around you.

The seat and backrest are well padded, and obviously provide significant comfort. If the brand ensures physical well-being throughout the day, the chair is not the most ergonomic model on the market. Listen and therefore respect your body well!

A handle allows you to adjust the tilt of the seat, and the height of the seat is also adjustable. FYI, it varies from 87.9 to 96 cm. The maximum weight supported by the structure is 110 kg. 

The chair has five nylon caster feet, which slide very smoothly. They are intended for use on carpet or carpet, and have already surprised some users by their speed and their lack of stability on smooth ground. So be careful!

The design of the chair is classic, and the breathable fabric covering gives it a certain elegance. That said, the materials are a little too rough for the taste of some. 

Users find the chair robust and comfortable while being very simple, and say they are satisfied with its value for money. In addition, the structure is very easy to assemble upon receipt of the package.

In the end, it is a very basic model all the same with a few adjustments in order to adapt a minimum to your needs. The chair is comfortable thanks to its padding, and is also robust. We particularly recommend it for short-term use, whether for homework, ordering papers and invoices, or working from home. 

hJh Office Ernesto : the inexpensive alternative

Leader in online sales in the office seating sector, this German company offers in its catalog hundreds of models of all shapes and at all prices. Do not be surprised to find this brand several times in our comparison!

The Ernesto model is fairly basic, but still has a certain flexibility. It has a tilting mechanism as well as a suspension that adapts perfectly to the weight of the user, while supporting a load of 90 kg maximum. 

The seat height is also adjustable thanks to a Toplift system. Its width and padding make it very comfortable, although some people consider the latter to be a bit insufficient. In addition, this model this time has padded armrests. They are however not adjustable. 

If the brand promises to be well installed, it also signals that it is a model perfectly suited for working at home, and that its use should ideally not exceed 4 hours per day approximately. 

The chair is equipped with five aluminum legs fitted with double castors with a self-braking system for optimum safety. Thus, they will be mobile when you are seated there, and will be blocked automatically as soon as the seat is empty. 

While this system makes it easy to keep the chair in place, some people find it constraining that they cannot move it as they please. So it all depends on how you plan to use it. The wheels are, by the way, compatible with carpet or carpet, but not with hard surfaces. 

Users approve of the design of the model, which presents a fairly retro and elegant look. The backrest and seat in imitation leather are embellished by an overstitching which gives a quilted effect to the chair. It is also available in white , burgundy or brown . 

Everything is very easy to assemble, and users point out the good value for money offered by the brand: although the quality of the Ernesto is fairly average, it remains quite acceptable and satisfactory in view of the price offered. 

Finally, it is a model that will seduce above all with its original design, and which convinced us by the presence of some basic but essential adjustments as well as by the addition of armrests. It will undoubtedly suit you if you are looking for a comfortable chair for more punctual use. 

The best mid-range office chairs

In this price category, the models become much more ergonomic and adjustable.

The chair we have selected is suitable for professional use, and has all the settings you could dream of for optimal comfort. 

hJh ERGO LINE II  : the best mid-range

Do not be fooled by its simple looks: this office chair offers much higher quality than previous models.

First of all, we are dealing with a professional quality model, which is therefore perfectly suited for prolonged use. It is ideal for accompanying you during your long working days, as long as you weigh no more than 120 kg.

Indeed, a point of honor was put in order to create a folder offering good lumbar support. The padded seat is comfortable and wide, for effective comfort and support. Dynamic, it offers excellent pelvic support. In addition, it is adjustable in height as well as in depth for an optimal adjustment.

The backrest is adjustable in height and follows the shape of your back, in order to provide secure lumbar support. The entire seat is adjustable via a synchronous mechanism, which follows your movements perfectly.

This time, the armrests are also adjustable in height on no less than five levels. These are 3D armrests.

However, the casters are only suitable for carpeting but have a self-locking brake which allows the seat to be locked when nobody is using it.

It is therefore mainly the adjustability of this chair that appeals to us, since it can adapt to everyone’s needs and desires. It ensures optimal comfort, which is of course essential for a pleasant and efficient working day.

The best high-end office chairs

For a much larger budget, the material quality must be there, and the manufacturers certainly emphasize ergonomics and comfort. 

The model in this section won us over with its ultra-equipped and adjustable design.

hJh Office Ergohuman : the best high-end

It is once again with a model from hJh Office that this section opens, a model that appeals to users with its comfort and flexibility.

This article differs first of all from the previous ones by its materials. If the seat is made from fabric, which is not unusual, the backrest is this time made of mesh, which gives it the advantage of being breathable. This is particularly pleasant if you live in an area where the heat has uncomfortable tendencies. 

If desired, the model is also made in leather / mesh version, or only in leather. If you lose the advantage of ventilation with the latter, you still gain in elegance and comfort.

Like the Zenit Comfort, the seat of the Ergohuman is adjustable in height as well as in depth, and the height of the backrest is adjustable in four positions. The chair is equipped with a synchronous system which is lockable, in order to ensure the most comfortable position possible. The whole is of course ergonomic, and offers a flexible and adapted lumbar support. 

The 2D armrests with Soft Pad support surface are adjustable in height, and can be adjusted vertically as well as horizontally. The big plus of the Ergohuman is the presence of a headrest, whose height and inclination you can adjust. 

Finally, the brakeless casters are compatible with hard and smooth surfaces as well as with carpets and rugs. 

Its use goes hand in hand with a hectic professional life, since it is quite possible to work there for around 8 hours a day. On the other hand, this model is not specially recommended for people measuring more than 185 cm. 

Here is an interesting chair for its comfort and adjustability. The materials are ideal for pleasant ventilation, and the various adjustments allow the seat to be personalized as well as possible. The presence of a headrest is a little extra very appreciable. 

Honorable mentions

Ikea Marcus : its fine mesh backrest is ideal for letting air circulate and working cool. Its height and tilt are adjustable, and it has a rocking mechanism. It thus provides good lumbar support. The wheels are provided with a self-locking mechanism, for optimum safety. The material quality also seems to be there, which certainly justifies its relatively high price compared to its limited modularity. 

In conclusion, which office chair to choose?

In the end, the Ergohuman chair by hJh Office is suitable for professional use and offers excellent adaptability. All its accessories, including a headrest, are adjustable and ergonomic. Its manufacture of breathable fabrics also provides additional comfort. 

For a low price, we direct you to the chair from Amazon Basics , ideal for a rather punctual use. If the possibility of adjustments is less, this model is very comfortable and robust while remaining simple. 

Finally, we offer you the Ergo Line II model from hJh Office . Its simple but effective design hides a beautiful modularity, since all its accessories are adjustable. Ergonomic, this chair with good lumbar support is fully usable throughout the working day. However, it is unfortunately only suitable for carpet.

After several hours of research and careful analysis of some twenty currently popular models, we have determined which are the best 4 connected bulbs available on the market. We have a preference for the Yeelight , which already offers many features for its affordable price. Among other things, it offers a variation of 16 million colors for personalized atmospheres, in addition to very practical adjustments via various intelligent assistants. 

Why trust us

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products in order to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles are sponsored. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining completely impartial.

How did we choose?

Connected bulbs have flooded the market in recent years, riding the wave of smart home equipment. It is now possible to control the lighting of your home remotely, without moving (or almost) the little finger.

Faced with this immensity of choice, it is often very difficult to find your way around and to opt for the connected bulb adapted to your needs and your budget.

This is why it is useful to learn about the various existing features and characteristics before getting started:

• Light intensity : the connected bulbs are low-consumption LED bulbs. Most therefore consume around 10 Watts at full power. The luminous fluxes proposed often approach 800 lumens, which is not very much. Finally, brands rarely present information concerning the angles of diffusion of their bulbs, which is a shame. 
• The temperature : the lighting will also vary depending on the temperature of the white light, which you can adjust on most models. For example, a temperature of 2500K will guarantee you a cozy and intimate atmosphere while from 5000K, the brightness will be closer to that of the day. 
• Colors : functionality formerly reserved for higher-end models, it is found today on more and more products, in a much wider price range. Colors are ideal for creating special atmospheres in your rooms, and are often available in very many tones. Most bulbs also allow white light to be adjusted so that it emits warm or cool tones. 
• The base : it is of course necessary to adapt the bulb to your lamp. Note that the most common caps are those with screws, E14 and E27. Bayonet caps are older systems, recognizable by their letter B. Finally, the G and GU caps offer pin systems. 
• Connection : if the connection via Bluetooth is the easiest to set up, it is also the most limited since you must be close to the object you want to control. On the contrary, if Wi-Fi is generally more expensive and more complex during installation, it is the only one that allows you to control your lighting outside your home. Some bulbs also require the installation of a bridge connecting them to a smartphone or tablet. In the case of Philips, for example, this makes it possible to manage around fifty lamps via a simple system. 
• Applications and compatibility with platforms : the bulbs can be managed via the applications developed by the brands. For even more ease of use, it can be interesting to find out about the compatibility of bulbs with various virtual assistants. Many of them are, for example, voice-controlled via Alexa from Amazon, the Google Assistant or Apple’s HomeKit. The IFTTT application also makes it possible to optimize “conversations” between all of your connected objects, and to determine personalized commands that meet your specific needs. 

After preselecting around twenty currently popular models, we therefore carefully analyzed the articles selected according to these characteristics, and then relied on user feedback as to their effectiveness. 

It is following this precise research that we are able to present our selection of the 4 best connected bulbs of the moment. 

The best cheap connected bulbs

Although they generally have less power and few functions, there are more and more efficient connected bulbs offered at an affordable price.

We have also managed to include a model that stands out for its many adjustment possibilities, its ease of use and above all its color mode. 

Yeelight : the best cheap

If it already requires a certain investment, this bulb has many interesting features while offering an attractive price for this kind of product.

In fact, unlike most of the models in this budget range, it offers a varied choice of colors (16 million tones) rather than a simple white light, which is a real plus for creating special atmospheres in your rooms.

In addition, you can opt for warm or cool tones, and adapt the intensity of the brightness to your desires and activities. The temperature varies from 1700 to 6500K, which allows a creation of atmosphere either subdued, or more natural and bright. 

It is also equipped with various modes and settings, such as voice control, synchronization with the music listened to, or even dimming for waking and falling asleep smoothly. You can also adjust the bulbs individually or in groups. 

It is compatible with intelligent systems from Google, Apple or SmartThings, and is easy to configure since it does not require a bridge to operate. On the other hand, it must be admitted that the application is perfectible, and sometimes encounters some problems. 

Its intensity of 800 lumens is characteristic of entry-level products, and users emphasize the quality of light and colors offered by the bulb. It is fitted with an E27 base.

Finally, it is a model offering a very interesting quality / price ratio, since it offers various practical and effective features for a very attractive price. It is a wise choice if you want to try the experience of connected bulbs. 

The best mid-range connected bulbs

For a higher price, the features offered are generally more complete, as is the choice of colors and intensities.

We have selected a first model offering an interesting light power going hand in hand with a wide palette of colors and modes, while the second is mainly distinguished by its circadian cycle function, which many appreciate. 

LIFX : the best mid-range

Initially offered at a much higher price, the LIFX has everything of a high-end connected bulb.

The first point that sets it apart is undoubtedly its intensity of 1100 lumens, which makes it the most powerful model of our selection. It therefore guarantees excellent lighting, which users appreciate (it is, after all, the main function of a bulb!). The brand specifies that it offers a luminous surface at an angle of 135 °. 

It obviously offers white light, which is available in no less than a thousand different tones (ranging from the warmest to the coldest), as well as a colored function offering 16,000 shades. The temperature varies from 2500K to 9000K, which can therefore perfectly imitate natural daylight. 

Users also emphasize the quality of the tone nuances, as well as the depth of the colors. If you are specifically looking for a bulb with a nice color palette, this is an ideal option. 

The basic functionalities are obviously always present: remote control, intensity adjustment, different programs, modes and schedules … Everything has been designed to allow you to manage and personalize the bulb with ease. 

It works over Wi-Fi, and is very intuitively manageable via an application, while being compatible with many voice devices and intelligent interfaces: Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings and much more.

It does not require a bridge, but its installation may seem a bit restrictive. Fortunately, its use afterwards is very simple! Some consumers report, however, that the application sometimes lacks responsiveness, and that pairing can be difficult depending on the devices used.  

Finally, it is again a standard E27 base, and the bulb consumes only between 0.5 and 11 Watts depending on its use, which is quite reasonable. 

In the end, here is a practical model to use and versatile thanks to its compatibility with various virtual assistants. The bulb will please you particularly if you are fond of rich lights and deep colors, able to create an interior to your taste!

TP-LINK LB130 : the mid-range alternative

If the majority of its characteristics remain basic, this bulb stands out above all from its competitors by its circadian mode.

The circadian rhythm consists in adjusting the light intensity and its temperature in order to best imitate natural light. Thus, among other things, you can prepare your body to fall asleep and wake up gently by adjusting the lighting according to the external brightness. 

On the other hand, users do not find its general luminous capacity exceptional. Unlike the previous model, it only has an intensity of 800 lumens (which is still reasonable). It has a standard E27 base.

The bulb is adjustable on a white light or on a color mode, whose intensity is adjustable from 2500K to 9000K, allowing to effectively reproduce daylight. You can set it to various mood modes, from dinner with friends to reading breaks and more festive tones. 

All the basic functions usually found in connected bulbs are also present: you can therefore define programs, adjust the intensity or even follow your consumption with ease. The various bulbs in the house are also individually adjustable, which is very practical. 

Connected directly to Wi-Fi without going through a bridge, it is easily controlled remotely thanks to the Kasa application. In addition, it is compatible with Android, Google Home and Alexa systems. 

Too bad, suddenly, users seem to notice connection problems after a few months of use, causing quite restrictive configuration losses.

In the end, this model has all the characteristics necessary for a customizable and easily manageable light, while offering a circadian mode that appeals to many consumers. Its general quality is however a little lower than that of our first choice.   

The best high-end connected bulbs

For larger budgets or more experienced users, only one model caught our attention. 

The investment is substantial, but its functionality and quality will undoubtedly appeal to the most connected of you. 

Philips White & Color Ambiance : the best high-end

The reputation of the Dutch brand in the world of lighting and fixtures is well established: it is therefore not surprising to find one of its products in this section of our comparison. 

We opted for its most popular bulb for users, which not only offers white light in warm or cool tones, but also a wide range of more than 16 million very rich colors.  

The quality of the light is here to emphasize, although its intensity is only 800 lumens, as for most connected bulbs in all price ranges. Considering the investment, we would have appreciated a little more power. However, it only consumes a maximum of 8.5 Watts.

The bulb is compatible with many applications and smart systems, such as Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant. 

It offers many features, such as voice control, wake-up light, a timer function, music synchronization or even a smoke detector mode. It is highly customizable, and will undoubtedly adapt to your needs and your interior. 

Unlike previous models, Philips bulbs work via a gateway or Hub, which makes their installation a little complicated. But once everything is in place, the use is very simple. This gateway makes it possible, among other things, to create a connected network of several tens of lamps.

Philips also offers a starter kit including three bulbs, the bridge, as well as a Smart Button remote control. 

It is therefore a colorful model, which charms by its quality and its many features. If its price seems prohibitive and its many superfluous options, you can always go to the simplest Philips HUE White or its Ambiance version , which offer white light, are more basic and above all accessible. 

NB: the wide range of connected luminaires offered by Philips even includes a connected lamp !

Honorable mentions

Ikea TRÅDFRI : the Swedish giant is not outdone in terms of technology: here it offers a practical starter kit consisting of an E27 bulb with a power of 1000 lumens and a remote control. So you can turn on, off and change the intensity and color of the light with ease. You can also manage your bulbs individually or in groups. To do this, you will need the appropriate gateway as well as the Ikea Home Smart application. 

Awox Smartlight : this bulb with a standard power of 800 lumens works this time via Bluetooth. Its installation and connection are therefore very simple via the SmartControl application, and do not require a gateway. You can opt for a white or colored light, knowing that the colors lack a little intensity to the taste of some. The bulb has various settings such as music synchronization, alarm clock or light notification in case of call or sms. 

In conclusion, which connected bulb to choose?

In the end, we have a preference for the Yeelight , which has convinced us with its various features, including its colored light mode. Easy to use, it is compatible with many virtual assistants, and benefits from a good brightness. All for a small price.

The LIFX seduces by its light intensity as well as the quality of its colors. Simple to install and configure, it offers many practical features. However, its price is still less affordable.

The Philips White & Color Ambiance stands out for its quality and reliability, and offers a very pleasant brightness. You can configure it via the application so that it best manages a multitude of actions, from musical synchronization to the brightness of “gaming”, via the smoke detector option. Its price is however really high. 

After many hours of research and in-depth examination of a dozen models of artificial trees, we have determined that the Triumph Tree 788041 is the best quality / price ratio of the moment thanks, among other things, to its very natural effect and its solid constitution. Stabilized by a robust metal base, it is hardly flammable and has a very complete composition.

Why trust us ?

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products in order to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles are sponsored. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining completely impartial.

How did we choose?

The Christmas tree, like the Christmas decorations , is an essential element during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Recently, artificial models are gaining more and more followers because of their many advantages.

Not only do these trees save money in the long run, but they are also more practical since they require no maintenance. In addition, their use over several years is beneficial for the environment.

In view of the many models available on the market, it is not easy to choose the ideal tree. This is why, in order to advise you as well as possible, we have based ourselves on a few criteria which seem essential to us: 

• Brand reliability : there are many unreliable brands on the market these days. Therefore, it seems essential to us to favor already recognized brands in order to be certain of the quality of manufacture as well as that of the after-sales service, if necessary. 
• Design : it is important to choose your tree according to the decorations you want to bring it. So, either you opt for the traditional green model, or you choose a flocked or luminous tree. Note that as part of this selection, we essentially turned to traditional and realistic models, so that these can adapt to the largest number of interiors. 
• Dimensions : it is best to determine the location and space you have before making your purchase. To do this, you need to take into account the ceiling height but also the floor area and the space occupied by the branches. 
• Materials : there are all kinds, such as wood, metal, polyethylene or PVC. Some of these materials influence lightness, others on stability and / or realism. 
• Ease of assembly : multiple options are now available to facilitate assembly and make it quick. Note that if it can be tedious to have to unfold each branch individually, this allows to properly work the silhouette and the placement of decorations. 

Thanks to these criteria, we were able to identify ten interesting trees, even if models from recognized brands are quite rare on the online market. It was only after a more in-depth analysis of each of them that we managed to identify what we consider to be the 4 best artificial trees currently available. 

Our Choice: Triumph Tree 788041

This spruce-style tree measures over 1.80m and has good robustness. It is stabilized by a metal leg and is hardly flammable. The color codes on the branches allow installation and disassembly fairly quickly. It is the most complete model of this comparison. 

Triumph Tree is a Dutch brand specializing in artificial Christmas trees for over 25 years. 

From the Forest Frosted Pine series, this model benefits from a fairly classic design: it is the perfect clone of an authentic spruce . This beautiful tree, 1.80 m high and 1.30 m wide, has 942 branches. 

Made of PVC, it stands out thanks to its mixture of hard and flexible needles. This detail gives it a dense and, above all, very natural look. 

Its metal base is very stable and remains fairly discreet insofar as the branches fall low enough. It is also useful to note that this fir is hardly flammable, since it has fireproof branches. 

Despite its size, it remains easy to assemble. Indeed, the manufacturer has implemented a very practical color code which is directly affixed to the branches. You just have to associate the different colors together. 

In general, users are more than satisfied with this Triumph Tree. They appreciate the realistic side, because it looks like two drops of water like a freshly cut spruce. However, we have a reservation regarding its packaging, the branches of the tree being directly delivered in the box, without specific protection for transport.

The best cheap artificial tree: Deuba 470

This PVC tree is very easy to store despite its large size of 1.80m. It has a symmetrical construction and comes with a support. If it has a good hold, several users denounce yet a low density of branches on the bottom of the tree, which deprives it of the realistic effect so coveted. 

The German company Deuba, located in Merzig, has been present on the market since 2002 and quickly established itself as a leader in online sales. 

The real strength of the Deuba 470 is above all its investment. It is quite rare to find a tree of this quality at such an affordable price.

It has a classic design while standing out with its artificial snow and encrusted pine cones. It therefore has a practical side, allowing you to make some savings in terms of decoration, without losing the magical effect.

Thanks to its symmetrical design and its 705 branches, it offers a very natural look, but only on the top of the tree. For good reason, several users deplore a low density of branches at the bottom. This disadvantage, combined with the fact that the strands start far enough from the trunk, gives it a bare appearance at the base and, therefore, less realistic. 

This can also have repercussions on the assembly. If it remains easy thanks to the clip fixing system, it can nevertheless be tedious. In fact, you are wasting time trying to spread the branches correctly to hide this defect. 

It will also be necessary to be careful because the support can also be fragile. On the other hand, during storage, you will have no trouble storing it, even if it is very bulky. 

In sum, it is fair to say that despite the few flaws inherent in its price range, this tree remains the best option for those with a limited budget. 

The best mid-range artificial tree: FairyTrees Natural Spruce

180 cm high and 125 cm wide, this model is an elegant choice in your interior, with an effectively natural finish. 

It is designed by a German brand specializing in the creation of artificial trees and proud of its handcrafted trees in one of their European factories. They also offer very pretty decorations that include traditional Christmas balls as well as compositions made with artificial branches.

If its installation does not present any difficulty, it is however necessary to show softness. It is indeed a fairly light PVC model (8 kg), which can quickly lose a few needles if its handling is not done meticulously when folding and unfolding the branches.

It must be said that there are few users who show inconvenience since these same needles are particularly well supplied. So even if some of them come off, the tree remains stoically natural. 

For its storage, it is also recommended to take some precautions. The manufacturer recommends keeping it in a special bag or carton and in a room where the ambient temperature cannot exceed 25 ° C (77 ° F), such as in a basement or garage.

If this may seem restrictive, we must admit that the rendering is particularly worth it. And to make it even more magical, you will receive a manual with the purchase including a detailed description of how to best position your decoration, with a few photos to support it.

Thanks to all this and despite the slight loss of thorns, users are very satisfied with this Christmas tree and many people recommend it. 

A mid-range alternative: Yorbay

Thanks to its integrated false snow and its real pine cones, this 180 cm model immerses you directly in the atmosphere of a snowy Canadian forest.

It is offered by Yorbay, a German brand located in Hamburg that offers a wide selection of home and garden supplies. 

If it differs from the competition, it is mainly thanks to its realistic design on the one hand and (above all) to its iron base allowing it to support a load up to 80 kg on the other. 

Given that it has more than 900 leaves, fanatics of sumptuous decorations should be seduced by it, especially since real pine cones and artificial snow give it a certain charm, even if the latter tends to crumble after several uses. .

We particularly appreciate its “safe” side since the needles, made of fireproof materials, have the advantage of not pricking. It is therefore very pleasant to decorate it as a family, without fear for small children’s hands.

It must be said that its assembly is extremely simple, since it suffices to fit the three distinct parts which compose it, then to unfold and orient the multiple branches according to your convenience. If you really need it, also know that the manufacturer has developed an installation video to help you with this task.

Despite the tendency of fake snow to crumble, we are dealing with a model which is distinguished by its generous rendering, its ease of assembly and its robustness. Handled with care, it should brighten up your Christmas for many years.

Honorable mentions 

At the moment, no model available on the European market seemed to us to meet the qualities necessary to appear alongside our main selection. We will not fail to offer you interesting alternatives as soon as we know about them.

We conducted long hours of research and compared fifteen popular models to determine which are the best home alarms currently available on the European market. Among these, the Tiiwee offers a particularly convincing value for money. Basic and unconnected, it has above all a deterrent action. Easy to install and use, it has a reasonable volume, and can be equipped with numerous sensors and detectors. It can also act as a chime.

Why trust us ?

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products in order to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles are sponsored. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining completely impartial.

How did we choose?

Security is one of the priorities of many owners, who are investing more and more in protection systems, which perform reassuring, dissuasive or protective functions in the event of frequent burglaries. 

But choosing a home alarm is not easy, as there are many models on the market. This choice depends mainly on your home, the perimeter you want to cover and the criteria that are specific to your lifestyle. 

Note that there are mainly three types of home alarms, which are mostly wireless these days:

• Local alarm : this is the traditional unconnected alarm, which triggers a siren to prevent an intrusion from taking place. Above all, it has a dissuasive power, since it cannot make direct contact with you or your neighbors. It should ideally be placed in a discreet location, so that burglars cannot find and deactivate it (although it is often necessary to enter a specific stop code). Basic, it is often inexpensive. 
• The self-monitoring connected alarm : connected to a smartphone, it keeps you informed of the situation in real time, and therefore warns you of an intrusion by sending you a notification. The efficiency of the connected models obviously depends on the quality of your internet connection. There are also models using the mobile network, which is normally more reliable: the alarm center must be equipped with a SIM card, and will send you an SMS in the event of a problem. The advantage of this type of system is that it allows you to react immediately.
• The alarm connected to a remote monitoring center : in addition to keeping you informed in real time of the situation of your home, it is associated with a remote monitoring system provided by a company. Thus, a professional, able to quickly manage a burglary situation, is immediately notified when the alarm goes off and can take control of the situation. This monitoring mode is of course much more expensive, since it requires a subscription, often monthly, from a remote monitoring service. 

Knowing this, here are some characteristics to take into account before any purchase:

• The detection range : the larger the area to be covered, the more the system must be complete and the higher the prices. An apartment can often be satisfied with a cheaper security system while a villa will probably have to move towards a medium or high-end model, more equipped. Also pay attention to the configuration and accesses that allow you to enter your home, that is to say the number of rooms to be covered as well as the number of doors and windows.
• The volume : the interior alarm siren aims above all to destabilize and scare away burglars. The more powerful it is, the more likely it is to fulfill its purpose. Generally, the alarm volume is around 110 dB. You can also extend your security system with an external alarm, which is then used to alert the neighborhood of an intrusion into your home, and thus deter thieves.
• Accessories : the vast majority of alarms are fitted with sensors to be placed on your doors and windows, which detect their opening. Often, they also carry motion detectors (if you can, we advise you to choose a system that does not take your pets into account). For the management of local alarms, there are often remote controls or badges . Some models also act as smoke or gas detectors.  

Here we have privileged the “simple” alarms, connected or not, which assume a dissuasive role, rather than the surveillance systems, often equipped with a camera and requiring a monthly subscription to ensure remote monitoring. If you are interested in more complete systems, we invite you to consult our reviews dedicated to indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras . 

We have browsed many English and French speaking reference websites and blogs, and have identified around fifteen currently popular models that meet our selection criteria. In order to decide between them, we then confronted them with numerous user feedback, which helped us to assess their reliability and ease of use.

This is how we are able to present you the 4 best home alarms currently available on the European market. 

Our Choice: Tiiwee

Particularly suitable for protecting small houses, apartments or even caravans, this local alarm has strong deterrent power thanks to its 120 dB siren. It is sold as a kit, which can of course be completed, comprising two door / window sensors and a remote control. Very easy to install and take in hand, it can also act as a chime in shops and stores. 

The main advantage of the Tiiwee A1 lies in its very simple use, and its installation facilitated by a clear and explicit manual. All settings are already made and just press a button to activate the alarm, then another to deactivate it. 

There are two other buttons to choose the tone and to activate a manual siren. The buttons on the remote control, on the other hand, are very sensitive, and users would have appreciated that it was equipped with a lock. The most recent X3 version of the alarm works via PIN code, and offers two volume levels.

Equipped with two door or window sensors and a remote control, the alarm can be personalized with many accessories to further increase your security. Among these, there are other detection tools such as a greater number of door and window sensors (you can have up to 40) which offer a better sound in the event of an alert, as well as motion detectors. 

Some believe that the alarm lacks a little power in terms of sound volume, although it benefits on paper with a power of 120 dB, above average. It should therefore be enough to protect a small house or apartment. Tenants are also particularly satisfied with the fact that it is easily removable. 

In the end, if you are looking for a small, effective alarm kit used to deter thieves or simply to protect a small home, the Tiiwee will be perfect for you. It is not the most sophisticated, but is expandable thanks to its many addable accessories. 

The best mid-range house alarm: Eray

This connected alarm with a power of 110 dB is armed with two motion detectors, nine opening detectors, two remote controls and two badges, all of which can of course be extended according to your needs. It works by double transmission, via Wi-Fi or GSM network, and can also be configured via the touch panel. Times and times are adjustable according to your needs, and the modern design is appreciable. 

The centralizing panel has a Wi-Fi or 3G connection. The radio identification system (RFID) makes it possible to recover data, which can be viewed on your smartphone via the application. It can constantly update the panel and make any adjustments. You can also provide a SIM card for use via GSM. 

Thus, the alarm can be deactivated from anywhere, either via the alarm panel controlled by the remote control, or via the mobile application, or by SMS. At the slightest alert, you are notified on your smartphone. The alarm can be configured to warn several people. 

Various settings are possible: you can arm and disarm the alarm on schedule, or adjust the delay according to your needs. The sound level of 110 dB, without being ultra-powerful, is completely acceptable. It is able to cover a large area, and is therefore helped by the many sensors provided. 

On the other hand, the configuration remains, according to users, quite arduous: it requires many codes, and is not facilitated by the user manual, very unclear and apparently poorly translated into French. It also sometimes seems to suffer from connection losses (hence the interest of the GSM system). 

We also cast a slight doubt on the reliability of the brand and its after-sales service, since we have not managed to find a site or even a page of official social networks other than Amazon. It does not seem to be particularly specialized in alarms or security systems (it sells, among other things, children’s toys, bags, or even storage kits or boxes). 

That being said, their alarm remains a product highly appreciated by users, and is more often validated by the reference sites that we have consulted. It will certainly suit you if you are looking for a connected device at a reasonable price. 

The best high-end home alarm: Somfy Home

Somfy Home is distinguished by its ability to trigger before the break-in takes place, thanks to its IntelliTAG technology which detects suspicious vibrations. Connected and manageable via a simple application, it is compatible with many intelligent assistants, and its access can be shared with your loved ones or neighbors. It has three sensors and a motion detector in addition to the indoor siren, as well as two badges.

In addition to the indoor siren with a volume of 110 dB, you can add an outdoor siren with a 112 dB sound signal with flash and speakers, in order to repel the risk of intrusion as much as possible. The motion detector is discreet and efficient, and can be adjusted to ignore your pet. 

The sensors are equipped with patented IntelliTAG technology, which perceives intruders before intrusion, for example by detecting vibrations linked to the use of tools intended to force the opening of a door or window. You are therefore immediately informed by notification. Your friends or neighbors can also be connected to the system in case you are on vacation. 

Somfy Home is easy to install. The entire procedure is indicated on the Somfy Protect mobile application, available on iOS and Android. Its activation is done via the remote control or the application, an audible indicator warns you when it is running.

Key Fob badges, intended to be attached to your keychain, are equipped with a system detecting your arrival at home and automatically disconnecting the alarm before you enter. Their material quality nevertheless seems to leave something to be desired.   

Finally, the downside is that the 110 dB alarm seems very sensitive, and is likely to be triggered for nothing. 

In summary, this connected system allows you to instantly follow what is happening in your home thanks, in particular, to a well-supplied pack, which can be supplemented by additional sensors, detectors and sirens, as well as by a camera system. However, these supplements significantly increase the bill, which is not negligible if you have to equip a large property. 

A cheap alternative: Kerui G18

This standard kit equipped with two motion detectors, five door and window sensors and two remote controls can be used manually or via GSM. It is possible to link it to several people, and the whole is of course supplementable with additional accessories. It also covers a large area thanks to its detection range of up to 100 meters.

You can simply operate the security system either with a four-button remote control, or via voice message, or with the GSM-related application. The latter, called “G18 Alarm”, is available on iOS and Android. 

Two cards can be integrated. The SIM card is used to receive text messages in the event of an alert, while the SD card is used to record the alarm history. The latter is especially useful if you decide to take the infrared IP camera, sold separately. 

You can go further by completing your system, which is compatible with no less than 150 sensors and 99 detectors. You can also decide to set the alarm to automatic arming and disarming, or configure them via access code. 

However, it is at the installation level that the shoe pinches. Indeed, the manual, only provided in English, makes installation difficult for the majority of users. In addition, the hardware quality of the devices is apparently not the most impressive. 

In short, the price / quality ratio of the Kerui G18 seems a little less interesting. It will nevertheless be useful if you are looking for a surveillance system capable of warning you of an intrusion offered at an affordable price. 

Honorable mentions 

Ectech : this system is equipped with four window and door sensors, two motion detectors, two remote controls and a GSM notification system. It also benefits from a powerful siren (120 dB) as well as an expandable and complete accessory kit. However, its manual in English puts users in difficulty for its installation, and its high sensitivity can cause baseless alerts. In addition, its autonomy is a bit weak.

Smanos K1 : this alarm system with a round and minimalist design includes two sensors for doors and windows, a motion detector, an indoor siren and a wireless control panel. The kit nevertheless seems a bit low for the price, and we therefore recommend it rather for a small home. Other than that, it takes advantage of practical technologies such as compatibility with Wi-Fi cameras or even voice control.

After many hours of research among a multitude of Christmas decorations available on the market, 5 of them have particularly stood out. Among these, our favorites are the string lights from Lighting Ever . Sold in number of 4, they offer the best quality / price ratio. As for non-light decorations, the 3 Christmas socks from SueH Design look great on a fireplace.

Why trust us ?

The Selectos editorial team spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and comparing products in order to find those that offer the best value for money.

None of our articles are sponsored. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy a product through our links, which allows us to finance our work while remaining completely impartial.

How did we choose?

Like the tree , Christmas decorations of all kinds invade our interiors in December. If there are a multitude of them on the various e-shops, most of them unfortunately often have big defects or simply turn out to be of poor general quality.

To select decorations that are both magical and reliable, we therefore used the following criteria:

• Reliability of the brand: This is the characteristic to which we have been most attentive. The Christmas market is indeed saturated with unknown (re) known sub-brands which provide no guarantee on the origin, manufacture, or even the presence of an after-sales service in the event of a problem. We have therefore selected here only products from brands that have been recognized in the field with e-commerce.
• Ease of assembly / start-up and use : If certain decorations are just waiting to be unpacked and placed in a strategic location, everything related to lighting or the sound environment requires putting in / regular power off. Thus, we favored articles with a remote control or an easy access button.
• The fixings : concerning the hanging decorations or those, heavier, requiring a fixing anchor, we automatically eliminated the products delivered without any fixing system (it is frustrating to have to mount yourself the cords of a hundred balls Christmas after reception!) and those whose system proved to be fragile in use or poorly adapted to various surfaces.
• The mode of supply : the projectors and the light and musical decorations need to be supplied. While more and more products are now adorned with less energy-consuming LED bulbs, more and more of them are also powered by batteries, to avoid binding cable arrangements. However, if you prefer to use electrical connections, take care to avoid overvoltages. A generator can then prove to be very useful. 

With these few criteria in mind we undertook a long search among the multitude of Christmas items available online. Of course, this selection always has a part of subjectivity but, with the 5 decorations selected below, we guarantee you a successful atmosphere, for unwavering use over several years.

Our Choice: Lighting Ever – LED String Lights

Despite their very attractive price, these small garlands amaze with their quality and endurance. Powered by batteries and with a waterproof cord, they allow many light arrangements.

Lighting Ever is an American company which was born in 2009 and which quickly specialized in LED lighting.

The garlands we have selected consist of a transparent copper cord of 1 meter, along which are arranged 20 LEDs diffusing a white but warm light (2700K-2900K). 

The cord then extends over 20 cm to reach the case of 4 batteries (included). Charged to the maximum, they offer you more than a week of use, with continuous ignition.

The cable itself is waterproof (IP65 certification), but this is not the case for the battery compartment. It is therefore possible for you to integrate these garlands into flower arrangements requiring regular watering or to cover them with false snow which you can then rinse off easily. However, care must be taken to leave the box, which the 20 cm length of power cord allows easily

Of course, these garlands do not have fixings per se, but the coppery cord allows them to be well modulated to arrange them in a vase, on a centerpiece or even in a (very small) fir tree. 

The fact that they do not heat also contributes to their great maneuverability since you can place them on any surface without being afraid of starting an unexpected fire. 

Finally, if we have selected the lot of 4 garlands here, know that the brand also offers packs of 8 or 16 as well as larger garlands (like their 20-meter model – on sector this time), just as qualitative.

The best mid-range Christmas decoration: SueH Design – Christmas socks

For decoration in the purest tradition, nothing like these socks to hang on the fireplace. Made of resistant materials and with good quality finishes, these XXL socks are thick enough to benefit from a beautiful outfit while being flexible enough to be easily rolled up and stored after the holidays.

The Sueh Design brand is part of the SEG Direct group, a manufacturer of high quality automotive accessories. This subsidiary was created to design and supply products for the home and, more specifically, for the kitchen. It is generally renowned for its use of quality materials and its advanced manufacturing techniques.

In general, users seem to feel this performance in the composition of socks that they consider very resistant. With a size of 48 x 25 cm, they can effectively accommodate various gifts and treats, without fear of seeing the seams let go. 

Of course, the patterns in the shape of Santa Claus, reindeer and snowman are already more than immersive given the period in which they are used, but it is fair to say that the somewhat vintage design also participates in the festive and timeless Christmas atmosphere.

Equipped with a simple hook, they are easy to hang on a nail but you can just as easily use them to decorate your tree, although their size is then substantial. 

Note that they are available in 8 versions, two of which can be lit from batteries. In the latter case, the pack only includes 2 pairs of socks. 

The best high-end Christmas decoration: Eecoo – Christmas projector

Equipped with Snowflake Projector Lights technology, this projector is ideal for fully immersing yourself in the magical Christmas atmosphere. With several fixing methods and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it is a ready-made solution for spending a “white” Christmas.

Eecoo is one of the subsidiaries of the Doqo company, which specializes in electrical products, consumables and high-tech accessories. Renowned for its 24-hour after-sales service, this branch offers a 2-year warranty on all of its products. It can refund or replace your purchase for approximately 30 days, without you having to provide justification.

Its operation is childish. Thanks to the multifunction remote control with a range of 15 m, you just need to program a fixed or flashing projection, set an operating hour, and initiate an automatic stop after 2, 4 or 6 hours.

If the projection can be done from 3 to 10 m, it is truly optimal at 5 m. It is therefore an excellent option for outdoor projection, especially since it has IP 65 protection, active IP 44 certification at the plug, as well as resistance to negative temperatures up to at -20 ° C. The 5 m connecting cord also greatly facilitates this outdoor use.

You can fix the Eecoo to the wall using screws (supplied with the plugs when purchased) or to the floor using a pick to be inserted into the ground. 

If the obligation to fix it may seem restrictive, its 180 ° adjustable head allows you to adjust the projection space as you see fit.

Thus, you benefit from a rendering more than appreciable when you project a semblance of snowfall on the window of the dining room, to enjoy your New Years Eve meal in a particularly festive atmosphere.

Finally, if this projector is obviously a must during the Christmas period, it is also very popular with users on special occasions such as a wedding, the atmosphere created being therefore most romantic.

A cheap alternative: Christmas Concepts – Hanging flakes

If these hanging flakes win the support of users, it is not for nothing. On the one hand, their worked design is perfect for immersing you in a winter atmosphere. On the other hand, their variation in 6 colors allows you to easily combine them with the decoration of your tree or the rest of your interior. Finally, their design in a cotton-like material makes them resistant to any fall. 

Christmas Concepts is a company over 60 years old. It specializes in the sale of festive products and, more particularly, in the sale of Christmas items, such as fir trees, decorations and lights.

These flakes have an ideal size of 10 cm. Without being too bulky, too heavy and too bulky in the tree, they perfectly fill the unsightly holes that are sometimes found in less well supplied trees. 

In addition, if you hang them on the wall or if you place them on a table, they effectively embellish the space without taking up all the space. 

The 6 colors offered are end-of-year classics that include red, green, silver, white, copper and gold. Depending on your choice, a silver or gold cord is provided for easy attachment. 

Thus, it is therefore entirely possible to match your new find with the rest of your decoration, the rendering being very different depending on the color chosen. Green, for example, offers a dynamic appearance and copper makes it more elegant. 

If the design of the flakes makes them almost unbreakable, several users recommend lacquering them before entrusting them to a child, especially if you do not want to see the glitter crumble on contact.

A mid-range alternative: Airlab – Christmas Gnome

According to Scandinavian folklore, this old gnome with his long beard protects homes and children from misfortune. It is therefore quite natural that it invades our interiors at Christmas. Qualitative and properly weighted to avoid tipping, it is a small decoration companion very appreciated by its buyers.

Created a few years ago, Airlab quickly became known with its gnomes available in three colors (Olaf, Felix and Axel) and entirely handcrafted. For good reason, the artisans assure you that you will not find a gnome like yours anywhere else. 

With a height of 48 cm, the latter is ideally placed under a slightly bald fir at the base, or even in the entrance to accommodate guests. 

If you want to shorten it slightly, be aware that there is a thread inside her cap. This allows you to bend the cap of your statuette in various directions.

The base of the gnome is weighted with sand, which ensures good stability, but also an automatic return to the vertical, if you accidentally strike it.

Also note that this warm decorative object also turns out to be a magnificent gift to offer. Indeed, each of the three gnomes brings their present, whether it is courage, love or luck. When the box in which they are delivered, it is of the most beautiful effect.

Honorable mentions 

At the moment, no model available on the European market seemed to us to meet the qualities necessary to appear alongside our main selection. We will not fail to offer you interesting alternatives as soon as we know about them.