The 6 Best Bug Zappers of 2024
They’re indiscriminate in their elimination of bugs. But if you’re determined to get one as part of your outdoor setup, we have some guidance.
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The advent of summer means more late night barbecues and pool parties, but that also means more bugs. And, there’s one thing that almost everyone can agree on: Getting targeted by an invasion of insects really bites (pun intended). Bug zappers use a UV light and an electrified grid to attract insects, which, once trapped, get hit with a high-voltage fatal shock. The bugs then fall into a collection tray for quick disposal.
It’s important to note that bug zappers are not effective at targeting most mosquitoes and biting insects—rather, they also trap bugs that are beneficial to the environment, like moths and beetles. In fact, one article by Colorado State University cites a study in which researchers found that “just 0.13 percent of the insects killed by one of these devices were biting flies, including female mosquitoes.” So eliminate or even cut down the mosquito population in your yard, they will not. The best way to rid your space of unwanted flying insects is to use multiple methods—and several are far more effective (and more humane) options. But if you’re still inclined to buy a bug zapper as part of your arsenal, we’ve laid out some things to keep in mind, along with a few models to consider.
Editors’ note 6/21/24: We updated the language in this story to reflect that no bug zapper is completely effective in clearing your yard of mosquitoes or other flying pests. To deter them fully, consider netting and other solutions we mention below.
The Best Bug Zappers
- Best Overall: Black Flag 5,500-Volt Deluxe Bug Zapper
- Best Value: Livin' Well Indoor and Outdoor Bug Zapper
- Best Non-Zapper Bug Trap: DynaTrap DT1050SR Mosquito, Beetle & Flying Insect Trap
- Best for Indoors: Black+Decker Bug Zapper
- Best for Large Properties: FlowTron Electronic Insect Zapper
What to Consider
Back Up Your Bug Zapper
For maximum insect protection, we recommend fighting pests on several fronts. We suggest using insect repellent or an insect-repelling device, like this rechargeable spacial repellent from Thermacell. Ideally, you can also create an enclosed space protected by netting or other material, or even use a fan to keep pests away from where you eat and relax.
Remember, not all bug zappers are designed to rid of the same kind of insects. If you’re trying to manage mosquitos, make sure to purchase a product that specializes in exterminating them, like a dedicated mosquito-repellant spray.
Location
Bug zappers differ depending on whether they’re made for indoor or outdoor spaces. Outdoor bug zappers are typically more powerful and weather-resistant, but might not come with a collection tray and they can be on the louder side. Indoor bug zappers can offer more aesthetically appealing options, but can be bulky and have placement restrictions depending on the size. Also, keep in mind that you might need an extension cord to hang the unit.
Coverage Area
For indoor environments, a bug zapper that can cover up to 500 square feet is ideal for most bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. Large, open spaces or open-plan layouts might require more coverage, in the 1,000 square foot range. For pest control outdoors, the coverage area needs to be much larger. 1,500 square feet and over can cover patios, gardens, and backyards sufficiently.
How We Selected
Bobbi Dempsey, the original author of this guide, owned a construction business in a rural area for more than a decade, where she used bug zappers to manage mosquitos at job sites near creeks and ponds. She has tested several zappers and determined which features are most important. She’s most familiar with lantern and hanging light bug zappers, and we factored in the zappers’ coverage areas, location compatibility, and energy-efficiency while comparing models. We also investigated how the devices handle dead bugs for easy, mess-free maintenance. Amber Joglar did the most recent update of this story and added crucial information on bug zappers’ effectiveness along with better alternative solutions to rid your yard of mosquitos and other flying pests.
Amber is the Digital Content Producer for Popular Mechanics, Runner's World and Bicycling, where she covers a range of tasks for the commerce team. She also writes fashion and beauty content for Best Products. Her work has been featured across all of the Enthusiast Group sites. In her free time you can likely find her watching horror movies, reading a good thriller book, or listening to a comedy podcast.
![Headshot of Bobbi Dempsey Headshot of Bobbi Dempsey](https://cdn.statically.io/img/hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/36359709-fded-40e5-af74-2b71644ca6cd_1634934484.jpg?fill=1:1&resize=120:*)
Bobbi Dempsey is the former owner of a construction and property maintenance business and a die-hard DIYer whose main project these days is her 100-plus-year-old home that’s a never-ending series of home improvement challenges and adventures; she has written reviews, product roundups, and shopping guides about drain snakes, all manner of saws, nostalgic toys, and more. She’s an economic justice fellow at Community Change and a reporting fellow at Economic Hardship Reporting Project. In addition to Popular Mechanics, she has written for a range of publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, Muscle & Fitness, and Parade.
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