9 of the best at-home COVID-19 tests and how to choose

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The SARS-CoV-2 virus and COVID-19, the disease that this virus causes, spread quickly throughout the world. Public health measures, such as physical distancing, are essential for stopping the spread of infection. Medically approved home testing can also be a valuable tool in helping end the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Here, we look at COVID-19, some home test kits a person may consider using, and when to contact a doctor.
Best nasal test: LetsGetChecked Coronavirus Test (COVID-19)
LetsGetChecked Coronavirus Test (COVID-19)
Best for free consultation: Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC
Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC
Best for fast shipping: Picture by Fulgent Genetics COVID-19 test
Picture by Fulgent Genetics COVID-19 test
Best for fast results: Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test at Walmart
Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test at Walmart
Best free test for those with COVID-19 symptoms: Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test
Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test
Best saliva test: Vitagene COVID-19 Saliva Test Kit
Vitagene COVID-19 Saliva Test Kit
Best for travel and events: Ellume Home Test at Walmart
Ellume Home Test at Walmart
Best for employee screening: DxTerity COVID-19 Testing at Walmart
DxTerity COVID-19 Testing at Walmart
Best for testing the whole family: InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test at Walmart
InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test at Walmart
About COVID-19
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for causing the disease COVID-19, appeared in late 2019. It quickly spread and led to a pandemic, with the disease affecting many people across several countries.
SARS
COVID-19
Human responses to COVID-19 vary greatly. While some people have mild cases and few or no symptoms, others become very sick and may require hospitalization.
vary greatly
Individuals with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung issues, may be at greater risk of severe illness, and for some, the disease proves to be fatal.
heart disease
diabetes
lung
greater risk
Common symptoms
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of COVID-19 typically develop 2–14 days after exposure to the virus.
2–14
Common symptoms of the disease include:
fatigue
fatigue
fever
fever
sudden loss of taste, smell, or both
sudden loss of taste, smell, or both
cough
cough
difficulty breathing
difficulty breathing
body or muscle aches
body or muscle aches
headache
headache
sore throat
sore throat
runny nose
runny nose
congestion
congestion
diarrhea
diarrhea
nausea
nausea
vomiting
vomiting
However, this list does not include all COVID-19 symptoms. It is also important to remember that many other diseases can cause symptoms similar to those of COVID-19. Home tests can rule out that a person has the disease at the time of testing.
can cause
Additionally, some people with a SARS-CoV-2 infection might not show any symptoms, but the virus can still spread to others. This is why physical distancing and other public health measures, including at-home coronavirus testing, are vital.
Insurance coverage of COVID-19 tests
As of January 15, 2022, insurance providers must reimburse the costs of over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests during the public health emergency.
January 15, 2022
Some insurance companies may pay for COVID-19 home tests straight away, while others may require a person to fill out a form requesting reimbursement.
For those without insurance, there are over 20,000 federally supported free testing sites across the United States. Moreover, the U.S. government has stated that it will provide further access to free tests at community sites, such as health centers and rural clinics.
In addition, anyone — regardless of their insurance status — can order four free COVID-19 tests directly from the government. People can expect to receive their tests 7–12 days after ordering.
four
When to test
The CDC states that people may need to take a home test if they show symptoms of COVID-19 or come into contact with someone who has tested positive, and cannot access a healthcare professional or public testing site.
CDC
According to the CDC, the virus can spread to others for up to 2 days before a person experiences symptoms, and it may continue to spread for 10–20 days after, depending on the severity of the disease and the strength of the person’s immune system.
immune system
What to look for in an at-home COVID-19 test
A person may consider several factors when looking for an at-home COVID-19 test. These include:
Certifications: Some companies work with laboratories that follow the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). This means that they have federal certifications and are open to regular inspections. A person can also check whether the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the tests.
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)
COVID-19 variants: Product pages include information on whether the test kits can detect newer COVID-19 variants, such as Omicron.
COVID-19 variants
Results: Most brands issue results within 3 days. People who need rapid tests may wish to choose a brand that offers results within 30 minutes.
Consultations: Some companies offer a free consultation for individuals who wish to discuss their results with a healthcare professional.
Instructions: Companies should provide people with clear and easy-to-follow instructions. Some companies may also provide step-by-step videos on their websites.
Testing method: A person can choose to purchase saliva, nasal, or saliva and nasal swab tests.
Collection method: Some tests require people to collect their sample at home and mail it to the provider’s laboratory. However, some companies stock self-tests that issue results within a few minutes and do not require individuals to mail the sample to a testing facility.
List of at-home COVID-19 tests
For people who need an at-home COVID-19 test, the following have received emergency use authorization (EUA) from the FDA.
emergency use authorization (EUA)
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
LetsGetChecked Coronavirus Test (COVID-19)
Best for: nasal testing
FDA EUA: available to view online
online
Type of test: lower nasal swab
Number of tests: one
Results time: within 1–3 days after receiving the sample
Price: $109
Learn more about LetsGetChecked here.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked here.
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
The test uses nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) that amplify the virus’s genetic material to make it easy to detect.
nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs)
The company uses two different types of NAATs: reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and transcription-mediated amplification (TMA).
To take the test, a person needs to do the following:
Use a cotton swab to collect a sample from the lower nasal passage.
Place the sample in a vial that comes with the test.
Send the sample to the company’s CLIA-certified laboratory using the enclosed next-day shipping label.
Upon receipt of the sample, laboratory specialists use diagnostic tests to look for the coronavirus. Test results are usually available 1–3 days after receiving the sample.
Once people receive their test results, medical staff provide support to individuals, if required.
LetsGetChecked sends users a receipt they can use to seek reimbursement from a medical insurance provider, if they have one.
LetsGetChecked Coronavirus Test (COVID-19) costs $109.
LEARN MORE
Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC
Best for: free consultation
FDA EUA: available to view online
online
Type of test: lower nasal swab
Number of tests: one
Results time: within 1–3 days from receiving the sample
Price: $109
Learn more about Everlywell here.
Learn more about Everlywell here.
This Everlywell home COVID-19 test involves a lower nasal swab to look for the genetic material of SARS-CoV-2 using RT-PCR.
A person needs to collect their samples between Monday and Friday and take them to a designated shipping location on the same day they do the test.
Laboratory specialists analyze the sample, and board certified physicians review the results, which they usually send to a person digitally within 24–48 hours. If the result is positive, individuals can receive a free telehealth consultation.
telehealth
The company website states that the test does not detect new variants.
This Everlywell test is eligible for coverage from a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA).
health savings account (HSA)
The company website states that some insurance plans may reimburse the cost. However, Everlywell does not currently participate in Medicare, so Medicare will not usually authorize Everlywell tests for reimbursement.
Medicare
Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC costs $109.
LEARN MORE
Picture by Fulgent Genetics COVID-19 test
Best for: fast shipping
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: nasal swab
Number of tests: one
Results time: within 2 days after receiving the sample
Price: $119
This home COVID-19 test is an RT-PCR test that looks for genetic material of the virus.
A person should receive their kit within 2 days, although the company advises it can arrange overnight shipping on request. Individuals test themselves with a nasal swab that they then return to the company with the pre-labeled envelope included in the kit.
Digital results are usually available within 48 hours of the company receiving the sample. A person may also arrange to speak with a healthcare professional from the company’s partner PWNHealth.
In the event of a positive test result, the PWNHealth Care Coordination Team will normally reach out to the individual and arrange for a consultation with a doctor.
Picture does not collaborate with any medical insurers. However, if a person has a plan provider, they may check with the provider to confirm coverage and reimbursement options.
Picture by Fulgent Genetics COVID-19 test costs $119.
LEARN MORE
Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test at Walmart
Best for: fast results
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: nasal swab
Number of tests: two
Results time: 20 minutes
Price: $19.88
This COVID-19 test from Abbott is a rapid antigen self-test that detects a protein from SARS-CoV-2. It also detects COVID-19 variants, including Delta and Omicron.
The kit contains two types of tests, both of which are a nasal swab. A person carries out each test within a 3-day window and at least 36 hours apart.
The test works in conjunction with Abbott NAVICA app. It takes approximately 20 minutes to receive test results.
Individuals can purchase this test in store or on the Walmart website, where shipping is typically available. Tests are also available through other local retailers and healthcare professionals.
Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test costs $19.88. The company also accepts FSA and HSA payments.
LEARN MORE
Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test
Best for: free test for those with COVID-19 symptoms
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: nasal swab
Number of tests: one
Results time: 1–2 days after receiving the sample
Price: free for those with COVID-19 symptoms, or $119
Learn more about Pixel by Labcorp here.
Learn more about Pixel by Labcorp here.
This at-home test uses a nasal swab. Once a person collects their sample at home, they need to send it back to the company. Then, the company will test the sample and issue a result within 2 days.
A person can view all test results in their Labcorp OnDemand account. Additionally, a free clinician consultation is available for people with positive or invalid test results.
Pixel by Labcorp states that COVID-19 variants, such as Delta and Omicron, do not affect the accuracy of this test.
The company also offers this test for free to those who:
are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19
have had exposure to COVID-19
live or work in a congregate setting
have been asked by a healthcare professional, contact investigator, or public health department to test
Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test costs $119 for individuals who wish to take it for reasons related to travel or school, for example.
SHOP NOW
Vitagene COVID-19 Saliva Test Kit
Best for: saliva test
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: saliva test
Number of tests: one
Results time: within 72 hours after receiving the sample
Price: $89
This test uses a saliva sample. Once a person orders and receives their test kit, they need to register it online with the company.
Vitagene offers on-screen instructions on how to take the test. After a person has collected their sample, they need to mail it to the company’s CLIA-certified laboratory. Independent doctors who are board certified will evaluate and assess a person’s test.
Individuals will receive their results within 72 hours of the company receiving the test sample.
Vitagene COVID-19 Saliva Test Kit costs $89. The company also accepts HSA and FSA payments.
SHOP NOW
Ellume Home Test at Walmart
Best for: travel and events
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: nasal swab
Number of tests: one
Results time: 15 minutes
Price: $34.99
This at-home rapid test uses a nasal swab. Ellume has a free COVID-19 test app that a person can download on a phone. It offers video instructions to help an individual perform the test.
People can expect to see their results within 15 minutes of taking the test.
Ellume states that this test is most suitable for individuals who require rapid testing for travel and events.
The company states that newer COVID-19 variants do not affect the product’s accuracy.
Ellume Home Test costs $34.99.
The FDA issued a Class I recall for false-positive tests in November 2021 for this company. However, Ellume has removed the recalled products from shelves, and the company will contact those who may be at risk of a false-positive test result.
Class I recall
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DxTerity COVID-19 Testing at Walmart
Best for: employee screening
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: saliva test
Number of tests: one
Results time: within 72 hours of receiving the sample
Price: $85 for single-use tests; bulk discounts available for companies
This test uses a saliva sample. The company states that the test is highly sensitive.
Once a person collects their sample at home, DxTerity will analyze the sample in its own laboratory. A person can then view their test results through the company’s secure portal within 72 hours of the company receiving the sample.
Additionally, employers can opt for the company’s screening program and pay a reduced price for bulk purchases.
DxTerity COVID-19 Testing kit costs $85.
SHOP NOW
InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test at Walmart
Best for: testing the whole family
FDA EAU: available to view online
online
Test type: nasal swab
Number of tests: two
Results time: 30 minutes
Price: $24.99
This rapid test requires a nasal swab. After a person has collected the swab from the nose, they need to gently swirl the swab into the tube. They will then receive their test results within 30 minutes.
The company states that this test is easy to use. Also, the convenience of a rapid test may make this product suitable for testing family members, including children.
Additionally, this rapid test may be suitable for people who wish to travel or attend events.
InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test costs $24.99 for two tests.
SHOP NOW
When to contact a doctor
In general, a person should contact a healthcare professional if they develop any of the COVID-19 symptoms we listed above.
This is vital to help determine their next plan of action, including going to a testing site or arranging an at-home coronavirus test. Healthcare professionals can also advise on quarantine or isolation measures while individuals await their results.
However, home testing may not suit individuals considered to be at high risk, such as those with chronic diseases or people who smoke. In these cases, a person should contact a doctor as soon as they experience symptoms.
smoke
Frequently asked questions
Below, we answer some frequently asked questions about COVID-19 home tests.
The CDC states that people will most commonly get a positive or negative COVID-19 test result.
most commonly
A positive test result means the test has detected the presence of the virus, and a person is likely to have an infection.
The CDC recommends that people who get a positive test result isolate at home for 10 days, wear a face mask, and avoid indoor gatherings to prevent the virus from spreading.
face mask
A negative test result means the test has not detected the presence of the virus, and a person may not have an infection. However, a negative test result does not mean a person does not have COVID-19. The CDC recommends repeating the test with at least 24 hours between tests to increase the accuracy of the test results.
In rare cases, self-tests may show an invalid result. This may mean that the test kit is not functioning properly or that an individual did not correctly collect their sample. If a person receives an invalid test result, they should contact the manufacturer for assistance and discuss any next steps.
The FDA also explains that tests can produce a false-negative or false-positive result. It recommends that people who receive a positive result self-isolate and contact a doctor for further advice.
FDA
Those who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and receive a negative test result should also contact a healthcare professional for further testing.
The CDC recommends different steps. These depend on whether a person has:
CDC
not received vaccination
had two vaccines
received a booster vaccine
For people who have come into contact with COVID-19 and have not received vaccination, have had two doses of the mRNA vaccine more than 6 months prior, or had the Johnson & Johnson vaccine more than 2 months prior, the CDC recommends quarantining for 5 days, with a further 5 days of wearing a face mask.
Individuals who have received a booster dose do not need to quarantine. However, they should wear a face mask for 10 days after the exposure, to reduce the likelihood of the virus transmitting to others.
The CDC recommends that people of all vaccine statuses undergo COVID-19 testing 5 days after exposure.
As of January 15, 2022, insurance companies must reimburse the cost of OTC COVID-19 tests. Some companies may pay the total cost up front, while others may require a person to fill in a form for reimbursement.
January 15, 2022
Additionally, people without insurance can receive free tests from over 20,000 federally supported sites across the U.S.
Regardless of their insurance status, a person can also receive four free COVID-19 tests directly from the government.
four
Summary
The SARS-CoV-2 virus and COVID-19, the disease the virus causes, pose serious health challenges. At-home coronavirus testing — along with other public health measures, such as vaccination and physical distancing — plays a vital role in controlling the spread of the virus.
Health experts designed these tests to be simple and straightforward for people to use. As such, these tests can provide important and actionable information for private and public health.
Please note: Medical News Today does not imply warranty of fitness for a particular purpose or endorse any of these applications. These apps have not been evaluated for medical accuracy by MNT. The FDA has not approved them unless otherwise indicated.