COVID Numbers Are Up. These Rapid Tests Are 34% Off on Amazon

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COVID-19 cases are on the uptick again, even if they’re not seeing the same volume that they have in seasons past. It’s harder than ever to find free tests, though, given that the federal government stopped classifying the pandemic as a public health emergency in May.

That means that you’re probably stuck paying for COVID tests out of pocket if you’re experiencing symptoms, have been notified about a close contact, or just want routine testing. Here’s a deal to help ease the cost: BINAX’s antigen self tests are more than a third off on Amazon today, about $16 for a set of two and $30 for a set of 4.

The BINAX tests are our top pick for at-home tests, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The wait is quick for results, only 15 minutes, and the kit comes with two sets of testing equipment (swabs, dropper bottles, test cards). It’s good for anyone who needs a quick, relatively straightforward test, it’s widely used and comes with clear instructions, and as a potential bonus, this test, like several others, may be FSA/HSA eligible (if you’re checking out on Amazon, just plug in your FSA/HSA card where you would a credit/debit card).

It’s important to remember, though, that an at-home test isn’t all you need for an all-clear, experts tell SPY.

“For a patient who is symptomatic, has been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, and gets a positive result with an at-home test, I think they can rest assured that they most likely have COVID-19,” Emily Volk, President of the College of American Pathologists, says. “If someone else has a similar set of circumstances and they get a negative test, I would not stop at that at-home test to get the all clear.” Dr. Volk suggests getting a laboratory PCR test for the most accurate and reliable results. 

SPY also recommends these N95 masks for protection against COVID, which experts strongly encourage wearing.