The Best N95, KF94, and KN95 Face Masks (2025)

Since the COVID-19 pandemic five years ago, WIRED has continued to update our mask recommendations due to the constant changes in availability and evolving guidance. Add to that the threat of toxic air, not only from wildfire smoke but, even worse, from burning homes. Now is the time to purchase masks in the same way one would buy a first aid kit or medicine, just in case. Some masks—like our top affordable pick, the Honeywell Safety DF300 N95 Flatfold ($23 for 50)—are ideal for public transportation or for use in a theater, and others—like our top overall N95 pick, IQAir's KN95/FFP ($70 for 12)—are put on during or after a wildfire. With the risk of disruption hitting mask supply chains, along with the issues of counterfeit masks, community spread of illness, increased wildfires, and the sometimes vanishing guidance pages on government websites, it’s important to keep your mask supplies up to date and at the ready. We've also included some tips on mask care and choosing the best kind ... Read full article.