We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
When deterrent sprays and citronella torches aren’t enough to rid your outdoor oasis of flying pests, bug zappers can help get the job done. With fewer buzzes in your ears and bites on your arms, you can enjoy your yard—whether you’re tending to your garden, relaxing outside with a book, or hosting a party.
We know everything from flies to miserable mosquitoes can dampen summer fun, so we tested six top-rated bug zappers to determine which ones were most effective at killing insects. Our top pick is the Flowtron BK40DK 1-Acre Electronic Insect Killer for its powerful performance and simple setup.
Keep reading to see what else we discovered during our tests and why we think these are the best bug zappers on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Flowtron BK40DK 1-Acre Electronic Insect Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Black+Decker BDPC941 Bug Zapper
↓ Jump to Review - BEST HANDHELD: Mosiller Smart Bug Zapper Electric Fly Swatter Racket
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SOLAR-POWERED: Pic Solar Insect Killer Torch
↓ Jump to Review - BEST INDOOR: Aspectek HR292-1 20W Indoor Electronic Bug Zapper
↓ Jump to Review
Bug Zappers Comparison
| Product | Power source | Suitability | Coverage area |
| Flowtron BK40DK 1-Acre Electronic Insect Killer | Plug-in | Outdoors | Up to 1 acre |
| Black+Decker BDPC941 Bug Zapper | Plug-in | Indoors and outdoors | Up to 625 square feet |
| Mosiller Smart Bug Zapper Electric Fly Swatter Racket | Wireless | Indoors and outdoors; store indoors | N/A |
| Pic Solar Insect Killer Torch | Solar powered | Outdoors | Manufacturer claims up to ½ acre; we’d estimate around 5,000 square feet based on our testing |
| Aspectek HR292-1 20W Indoor Electronic Bug Zapper | Plug-in | Indoors and covered outdoor areas | Up to 1,000 square feet |
Our Top Picks
An effective mosquito repellent may work well on your body, but to eliminate nuisance bugs throughout your space, one of the following best bug zappers should do the trick.
Best Overall
Flowtron BK40DK 1-Acre Electronic Insect Killer
Buy at Amazon Buy at Lowe's Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Highly effective black light attracts and kills insects
- Slot for scented bait enhances mosquito attraction
- Easy plug-and-play setup
What We Don’t Like
- No power switch; must unplug to turn off
- Not the most visually attractive design
Product Specs
- Power source: Plug-in
- Suitability: Outdoors
- Coverage area: Up to 1 acre
The Flowtron 1-acre bug zapper uses a bait-and-kill design that’s simple but effective. Two black light bulbs attract bugs to an electrified grid, instantly zapping them with high-voltage electricity. Installation is quick and easy: Simply set it on a flat surface or hang it from a hook using the built-in ring, then plug it into an outdoor outlet or extension cord. Since there’s no on/off button, we used a power strip with a switch so we didn’t have to plug and unplug it.
During testing, the Flowtron was exceptionally effective at killing insects. It was obvious how well it was working, as each time it zaps a bug, it produces a bright spark of orange accompanied by an audible snap. While satisfying at first, that repeated snapping sound could be off-putting during meals or social gatherings.
Flowtron claims the unit can reduce insects over a 1-acre area, which seems ambitious, but it did noticeably reduce biting insects around our patio. Aesthetically, its lantern-style frame, bright bulbs, and a dangling power cord are more functional than aesthetic and may stick out in well-designed outdoor spaces. That said, we care more about fighting back against biting insects than appearance, which is why the Flowtron light zapper for bugs is our top option.
What our tester says: “Less than a minute after we plugged it in, the Flowtron quickly began reducing the population of flying insects around our back patio.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer
Read our full review: Flowtron BK40DK 1-Acre Electronic Insect Killer
Get the Flowtron bug zapper at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
Black+Decker BDPC941 Bug Zapper
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Removable tray and brush make cleaning easy
- Quiet, dim, and sleek—blends into surroundings
- Affordable outdoor or indoor mosquito protection
- Hang with ring or stand on flat base
What We Don’t Like
- Some bugs may stick to the light
- Less effective in heavy bug areas
Product Specs
- Power source: Plug-in
- Suitability: Indoors and outdoors
- Coverage area: 625 square feet
This Black+Decker outdoor bug zapper is a quiet, unintrusive mosquito control system for flying pests across about 625 square feet, indoors or outdoors. Its weather-resistant housing and long-lasting UV light make it a solid choice for mild pest problems in patios, porches, or homes.
Unlike traditional bug zappers that produce a characteristic pop each time they kill an insect, this model eliminates them without an audible snap. Without the usual sounds and sparks, we were initially a bit skeptical about whether it was even working. However, the collection tray was impressively full after just a few hours—though it still didn’t seem to make as big a dent as units with brighter fluorescent lights. Since we’re in a heavily wooded area with a significant insect population, the dimmer bulbs on the Black+Decker bug zapper light simply weren’t quite enough to draw all the bugs away from our skin.
Still, its sleek design, compact size, and easy-to-clean tray made it one of the most attractive and low-maintenance options we tested. Overall, this is a good mosquito zapper for smaller bug populations for indoor use.
What our tester says: “This bug zapper for gnats, mosquitoes, and flies is so quiet we wondered if it was actually working. After just a few hours, though, we pulled out the tray and found a significant body count.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Black+Decker bug zapper at Amazon.
Best Handheld
Mosiller Smart Bug Zapper Electric Fly Swatter Racket
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Works well in low-light conditions
- Safety layers prevent accidental shocks
- Rechargeable design increases portability
What We Don’t Like
- Needs dim lighting to be effective
- No tray—dead bugs fall where zapped
Product Specs
- Power source: Wireless
- Suitability: Indoors and outdoors; store indoors
- Coverage area: N/A
The Mosiller smart bug zapper is a lamp designed to solve indoor or outdoor fly and mosquito problems. It features a handle attached to dual UV lamp bulbs inside a circular frame, making it look a bit like a futuristic bug swatter. Bugs are drawn to the UV light and shocked by the electrified grid. The device is wireless and comes with a charging base that allows it to rest on a flat surface, so you don’t have to hold it constantly.
We were skeptical when first trying out this handheld bug zapper racket, but it works surprisingly well. Shortly after activating the light, we were zapping bugs with ease. Since the grid pops with each kill, it’s easy to tell when you’ve taken care of a flying pest. Its compact size and cordless design make it convenient to use and take anywhere you expect to encounter bugs, though it’s not meant to be stored outdoors.
Thanks to its modern design and small footprint, the Mosiller ranks as one of the more stylish bug zappers we tested. Other than the fact that there’s no collection tray to catch killed insects, we didn’t mind keeping it right next to our table in our outdoor setup. While it’s not as powerful as the larger lantern-style models, it’s a solid choice for light insect control and one of the best indoor fly zappers available.
Get the Mosiller handheld bug zapper at Amazon.
Best Solar-Powered
Pic Solar Insect Killer Torch
Buy at Amazon Buy at Lowe's Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Attractive torch with realistic flame effect
- Stakes and base offer height flexibility
- Solar-powered and easy to place outdoors
What We Don’t Like
- Less effective than traditional bug zappers
Product Specs
- Power source: Solar powered
- Suitability: Outdoors
- Coverage area: Manufacturer claims up to ½ acre; we’d estimate around 5,000 square feet based on our testing
If you didn’t know any better, you might mistake this attractive torch-style bug zapper for simple landscape lighting. It combines a flickering LED flame that mimics warm candlelight with a blue UV LED light that attracts insects. This design makes it a nice alternative to the more conspicuous lantern-style bug zappers that use bright fluorescent lights. The Pic solar-powered bug zapper is also a silent killer; you won’t hear any audible sizzling as it kills insects.
This set includes a torch, a height-adjustable stake, and a base for tabletop use. It requires no external power source, running on a rechargeable LED battery powered by sunlight (each charge lasts 6 hours or more). It’s waterproof, designed to stay outside year-round, and automatically turns on at dusk, making it a low-maintenance, hands-off form of bug control.
While the Pic torch blends with the aesthetics of an outdoor living space better than traditional bug zappers, there’s a clear trade-off in performance. We found plenty of dead insects inside the torch and removable tray after a night of use, but it still didn’t kill nearly as many insects as other bug zappers. This makes this outdoor fly zapper best suited for light insect activity rather than full-on bug invasions. For those seeking an unobtrusive solar bug zapper that complements outdoor decor, the Pic is an attractive, eco-friendly option.
Get the Pic bug zapper at Amazon (set of 2), Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best for Indoors
Aspectek HR292-1 20W Indoor Electronic Bug Zapper
Buy at Amazon Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Highly effective indoor fly zapper
- Safety layer protects against accidental shocks
- Compact and easy to move
What We Don’t Like
- Popping sound when zapping insects
- Bright, utilitarian look isn’t very stylish
Product Specs
- Power source: Plug-in
- Suitability: Indoors or covered outdoor areas
- Coverage area: 1,000 square feet
Aspectek’s indoor bug zapper is an ideal choice when dealing with a flying insect problem indoors. It can sit on a countertop or be mounted to a wall using the included hanging chain, and it uses dual UV bug zapper lamp bulbs and an electrified metal grid to attract and kill all types of flying insects. The sturdy mesh screen prevents accidental human or pet contact with the electrified bug-zapping grid, while the removable and washable collection tray makes cleanup fast and easy.
In our tests, the Aspectek performed as well as many outdoor models using similar black light and grid designs. It attracted and dispatched bugs at a high rate, making it seem almost too effective for a typical indoor space already protected by window screens. The Aspectek also emits a loud pop when it claims a victim, which can be a bit unsettling for indoor use. Couple that with its utilitarian look and bright black light, and it probably isn’t something most people would want in their bedrooms.
However, if you’re dealing with a significant fly or mosquito problem in your home’s main living area, this bug zapper will take care of it. It’s also great for those needing something for a garage, screened-in porch, or covered patio.
Get the Aspectek bug zapper at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Bug Zappers
| Products tested | 6 |
| Tests performed | 5 |
| Price range | $15 to $75 |
Since no one wants to share their space with nuisance bugs, our overall goal was to help shoppers find quality products that eliminate flies and other pesky insects. To do that, we tested six top-rated bug zappers during the height of bug season in the South. We ran each unit for a set period at night, then assessed effectiveness by examining total insect body count afterward.
In addition to performance, we considered coverage area, ease of setup, and overall usability. Because bug zappers often become part of an outdoor setup, we also considered aesthetics, looking for models that not only work well but also blend into outdoor decor.
We included a range of styles and power sources—plug-in models, a handheld battery-powered option, and even a solar-powered torch—so shoppers can choose a zapper that suits their space, budget, and bug problem.
What to Consider When Choosing a Bug Zapper
Bug zappers have been around longer than you probably think. An early prototype featured an electric light and a chunk of bait encased within an electrified cage. Insects, attracted by the light and bait, were electrocuted when they touched the cage.
Many of the best bug zappers today work on the same simple concept. They feature an ultraviolet (UV) light that insects can’t resist. When the bugs try to get to the light, they pass through an electrified wire grid that kills them on contact. Dead bugs then drop into a removable collection tray, which users can empty as often as needed (usually every 2 to 7 days, depending on the prevalence of pests).
Consider the following factors when selecting a bug zapper for an indoor or outdoor space.
Power Source
Bug zappers come with various power sources, but most rely on plug-in electric power. For outdoor electric bug zapper use, you’ll need access to an exterior outlet or a heavy-duty extension cord rated for outdoor use.
Battery-powered bug zappers offer more flexibility. These lightweight, portable units are designed to hang from trees, sit on a table, or be swung like a racquet while camping, tailgating, and enjoying other outdoor activities.
Solar-powered bug zappers are the newest and most versatile option. These eco-friendly models charge during the day using sunlight and activate at dusk—some automatically, others manually. They’re ideal mosquito repellents for patios, gardens, or travel when you want hands-off pest control without worrying about finding an outlet.
Outdoor vs. Indoor
While indoor and outdoor bug zappers serve the same purpose, outdoor models are built to withstand the elements. They’re typically larger, more durable, and often come with bigger insect collection trays. Hanging electric units are a popular choice for patios and seating areas, offering both function and a decorative touch.
The best Indoor bug zapper, on the other hand, will generally be relatively compact and designed for quieter and more low-profile operation. Many use white UV lights instead of the bright purple bulbs common in outdoor models, making them less distracting in living spaces. Wall-mounted and countertop units are especially popular indoors thanks to their easy setup and unobtrusive design.
Some bug zappers are versatile enough to work both indoors and outdoors. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the model you choose fits your intended use.
Shock Value
Plug-in and lantern-style bug zappers feature an electrified grid safely enclosed within a plastic cage, preventing accidental contact and shocks. This design makes them a safer option for households with kids or pets.
Racquet-type zappers, also called “electric fly swatters,” work a bit differently. Pressing a button on the tennis racket–type handle activates the electrified grid. When the head comes in contact with a bug, it delivers a shock to kill it. However, the grid remains active as long as the button is depressed, so anyone who touches it will get a shock. To prevent accidental zaps, look for a handheld zapper with a protective layer, keep pets out of swatting range, and remind kids that electric fly swatters are not toys.
Bait
Many flying insects are attracted to light, but a University of Delaware study found that bug zappers kill more nonbiting insects, such as flying beetles and moths, than biters, including mosquitoes and biting flies.
Bug zappers that get rid of mosquitoes amp up their effectiveness with bait containing octenol, a chemical found in human breath and sweat that mosquitoes find irresistible. Octenol is typically sold as a small lure that attaches inside a zapper’s collection tray, and one lure attracts mosquitoes for up to 3 months.
For an especially budget-friendly option, you can also make your own mosquito bait using household materials. DIY mosquito traps can be a simple and safe mosquito repellent supplement or alternative to traditional zappers.
Coverage Area
When on the hunt for an outdoor bug zapper, it’s a good idea to check the suggested coverage area. While there are no industry standards, typically a larger coverage area means brighter UV lights in the zappers so that bugs see them from a greater distance.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists bug zappers as “pesticide devices.” While the EPA admonishes manufacturers not to make false claims about their products, they do not regulate the bug-zapper industry, so exaggerated claims may occur.
FAQs
When you’re using a bug zapper, flying insects are less likely to put a damper on your evening plans. Before selecting from among the best mosquito zapper models in this list, check out the following common questions and their corresponding answers to learn more.
Most freestanding or hanging bug zappers attract insects with a bright light and electrocute them with an electrical mechanism once they land. An electric fly swatter, on the other hand, employs a racquet-style design with an electrified mesh to zap any bugs in its path.
Bug zappers can kill any bug that comes in contact with their wired grids, beneficial or otherwise.
An active bug zapper will still kill bugs that come in contact with it during the day. However, its luring rays do not work as effectively in the daylight.
The longer a bug zapper is left on, the more bugs it will trap. It’s best to turn off outdoor bug zappers at night once you’ve come inside, since there’s no need to continue killing bugs throughout the night. However, it is effective to leave an indoor mosquito zapper on overnight to kill as many bugs within a room as possible.
No, bug zappers for mosquitos and other flying pests do not use very much electricity. If electricity use is a concern, opt for a battery- or solar-powered zapper.
As mentioned in the Bait section above, bug zappers often kill harmless or beneficial insects. This can impact local ecosystems and pollination while potentially spreading bacteria from insect fragments. Those looking to target harmful or biting insects specifically will want to consider using a mosquito trap, fly trap, or wasp trap as an alternative.
Most outdoor bug zappers are weather-resistant, but heavy rain can increase the risk of electrical failure. For safety, check your model’s manual and consider turning it off in heavy downpours or storms since bugs are less likely to be active at those times anyway.
Which is better depends on your needs and area of intended use. Black light is better for outdoor bug zappers because it attracts more insects. While white light doesn’t draw as many flying pests, it’s often used by indoor models since it’s easier on the eyes.
Meet the Tester
Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Tony has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.
Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor and Jasmine Harding.
