A-Z Guide

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V8 juice

Fruit juice popper reviews  

Is there a place for fruit poppers in your child’s lunchbox?

30 Apr 2012 | We review 100 different varieties of fruit juice poppers available in major supermarkets and found a few factors worth considering before you pop one in your kids lunchbox.

Vaccination

Vaccinations

There are nine diseases that are preventable by childhood immunisation.

1 May 2013 | By immunising your child, you are offering her the safest and most effective form of protection against many serious diseases - the benefit of this protection far outweighs the rare complications associated with immunisation.

Top travelling tips for summer

If you're planning a holiday this summer, check out our checklist for a smooth break.

3 Jan 2013 | CHOICE puts together ten top tips to help you have a safe and happy holiday this season.

Can a chiropractor replace your GP?

Chiropractors are increasingly moving into family primary care, taking on the role traditionally filled by GPs.

23 Aug 2012 | As with all medical practices, there are risks involved with chiropractic. So do the benefits for children outweigh the risks?

Vacuum cleaners

Appliance reliability survey

Our 2013 update reveals how our members rate common technology products and appliances for reliability.

18 Mar 2013 | CHOICE regularly surveys our members, asking them about how reliable they've found their appliances.

Handheld vacuum cleaner reviews

We've tested ten handheld vacs ranging in price from $59 up to $349.

6 Mar 2013 | Handheld vacuum cleaners are handy for cleaning up small messes.

Vacuum cleaner reviews  

We test vacuum cleaners at all price points, from $69 to $1599.

27 Feb 2013 | With more and more vacuum brands and models on the market, we sort the best from the rest.

Stick vacuum cleaner reviews

We test 12 stick vacuums, ranging in price between $100 and $459.

26 Sep 2012 | These stick vacuums are handy around the home and most separate into a handheld vac as well.

Robot vacuum cleaner reviews

Six robot vacuum cleaners put to the test.

17 Sep 2012 | A robot that takes care of the household vacuuming is an attractive idea, but how good are the robot vacuum cleaners?

ALDI Lumina Signature first look

We take a first look at the ALDI Lumina Signature vacuum cleaner.

26 Jul 2012 | ALDI's Lumina Signature 3019 VC-460 is a good vacuum cleaner at a great price.

CHOICE Awards 2012  

Our experts hand out bouquets to the worthy recipients.

28 Mar 2012 | The third annual CHOICE Awards is our chance to celebrate the people, products, services and brands that improve the lives of consumers every day.

Expensive vacuum cleaner reviews

We test high-end vacuum cleaners priced from $600 to $1099.

24 Nov 2011 | CHOICE reveals which expensive vacuum cleaners earn their keep, and whether it's necessary to spend up to $1000 on a model.

Low-cost vacuum cleaner reviews  

You can buy a good quality vacuum cleaner for less than $300. Our newest test results include the latest models.

14 Jul 2011 | Our test reveals some good, affordable choices and one model in particular that would hold its own against vacuums costing twice as much.

Dyson DC35 MultiFloor Stick Vac

Is the cost on this slick stick vacuum worth the reward?

1 Mar 2011 | Dyson's latest stick vac is a top performer, but it has a price tag to match.

Black-and-Decker-Dustbuster-Flexi-review

Put simply, this is the best-performing handheld vacuum cleaner CHOICE has ever tested.

16 Nov 2010 | The Dustbuster Flexi easily and effectively tackles spot vacuuming tasks.

Samsung-Navibot-robot-vacuum-cleaner

Vacuuming can’t yet be left entirely to the machines.

29 Oct 2010 | Easy to use and clever at navigating around rooms, the NaviBot is still no replacement for a traditional vacuum cleaner.

Vacuum cleaners buying guide

Has your vacuum cleaner bitten the dust? Before you buy a new one, check out our quick guide.

6 Jul 2010 | You can’t go past a vacuum cleaner that is light, quiet, easy to manoeuvre, has a long cord and has a neat compact design for easy storage.

Dyson Radix 6 handheld vacuum cleaner

In 2007 this was the most effective - and most expensive - handheld vac we'd ever tested

23 Nov 2009 | First Look: Dyson Radix 6 handheld vacuum cleaner In 2007 this was the most effective - and most expensive - handheld vac we'd ever tested.

iRobot Dirt Dog review

If you’ve got a messy workshop or patio — and plenty of time — the Dirt Dog might be your new best friend.

14 Aug 2008 | We put the Dirt Dog to the test on a workshop floor scattered with sawdust, small nails, screws, nuts and washers.

Carpet spot cleaner reviews

A good carpet cleaner should get you out of trouble ... unless you live with a budding Pro Hart.

25 Sep 2007 | We put the carpet spot cleaners to the test on two different types of cream-coloured carpet: nylon cut pile and wool sisal.

Carpet cleaning

Don't let just anyone loose on your carpets.

10 Apr 2007 | While you're more likely to wait until your carpets are covered in muddy paw prints before hiring a carpet cleaner, having your carpets cleaned at least once a year should prolong their life.

Valco

Stroller and pram reviews  

We've tested 128 strollers for safety, durability and ease of use.

15 May 2013 | Find out which strollers, including newly tested Baby Jogger, Bugaboo, Childcare and Steelcraft models, meet our exacting safety standards.

High chair reviews  

We've tested 13 new high chairs, including models from Childcare, Ikea and Stokke.

25 Mar 2013 | CHOICE has tested 34 high chairs, priced from $30 to $600, to the Australian standard. Find out which models we recommend.

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Double stroller reviews  

Which type of double stroller is for you?

9 Aug 2012 | We put nine double strollers of various types to the test, plus results for 18 previously tested models.

Playpen reviews

Of the 16 playpens tested, only one is recommended.

5 Dec 2011 | As there is no current mandatory or voluntary Australian standard for playpens, some models currently on the market may pose potential safety risks to your child.

Valco Stroller Roller first look

This stroller accessory aims to make transporting your stroller easier.

26 Oct 2011 | This stroller bag gives your stroller a neat and tidy look, however packing and unpacking could be potentially time consuming.

Valuations

Automated property valuations

Are they reliable or just a waste of money?

21 Feb 2008 | Websites that offer automated property valuations often use emotive language to sell their services.

Vax

Steam mop reviews  

Steam mop ads seem to be on a loop on daytime TV, but does the reality match the hype?

18 Oct 2012 | We review 13 steam mops, priced from $49 to $299, including models from Karcher, Hoover and Kenwood.

Stick vacuum cleaner reviews

We test 12 stick vacuums, ranging in price between $100 and $459.

26 Sep 2012 | These stick vacuums are handy around the home and most separate into a handheld vac as well.

Vee-Bee

Safety gate and barrier reviews

Sealing off certain rooms or stairs is key when your baby becomes mobile.

18 Dec 2012 | Test results for 41 safety gates and barriers priced from $20 to $199

Portable cot reviews

Portable cots are handy if you're on the move, but there are some safety issues to keep in mind.

1 Aug 2012 | Two of the new models are recommended and one is worth considering – the rest fail either a mandatory requirement or what we consider to be a major safety issue.

Vegetables

Fast food vegetarian 2012

How do the major chains stack up when it comes to healthy vegetarian fast food?

14 Jun 2012 | We've surveyed 12 national fast food chains and reviewed their online menus to see how their vegetarian offerings stack up nutritionally.

Vegetarian meat substitutes

We found many vegetarian meat substitutes are alarmingly high in salt - and taste bland.

11 Apr 2011 | CHOICE put a handful of vegetarian meat substitutes to the test, rating both nutritional value and taste.

Fennel salad

A fresh and delicious salad.

2 Mar 2011 | A delicious salad that quick and easy to make.

Cucumber salad

A tasty and fresh summer salad.

20 Jan 2011 | A simple way to freshen your summer meals.

Vegetarian goulash

A tasty vegetarian dish.

14 Jan 2011 | Cook's CHOICE cooks up a tasty vegetarian dish.

Eggplant and mushroom pasta

A tasty vegetable pasta with a touch of cinnamon.

14 Jan 2011 | Eggplant and mushroom pasta with a touch of cinnamon, topped with parmasan cheese.

Roasted beetroot spinach and mint salad

CHOICE recipe for a sweet and salty salad

25 Jun 2010 | Ingredients that may not often go together makes a great salad


How to roast beetroot

A simple way with beetroot

25 Jun 2010 | A complex root vegetable is simplified via this recipe


Cauliflower au gratin

CHOICE recipe for cauliflower au gratin

24 Jun 2010 | Quick and easy way to make cauliflower very tasty.


Curry vegetable and chicken soup

CHOICE recipe for indian vegetable and chicken soup

24 Jun 2010 | A delightful combination of chicken and spices create a hearty soup


Mushroom pasta with sage

Mushroom with a hint of sage make this great pasta dish

24 Jun 2010 | A tasty mushroom pasta with a hint of sage.


Chicken corn and brussel sprout soup

CHOICE recipe for chicken, corn and brussel sprout soup

24 Jun 2010 | An oft-maligned vegetable makes the core of this delicious soup


Parsnip mash

Add a little parsnip for a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes

24 Jun 2010 | Instead of potato, why not parsnip? Just as tasty with a hint of sage.


Pea-and-ham-soup

CHOICE recipe for pea and ham soup, a perfect winter dinner

24 Jun 2010 | A thick and tasty pea and ham soup


Pea-and-ham-soup

CHOICE recipe for pea and ham soup, a perfect winter dinner

24 Jun 2010 | A thick and tasty pea and ham soup


Roasted-carrots-with-thyme

A great accompaniment to any roasted meat

8 Jun 2010 | Simple and naturally sweet, this recipe is a great partner.


Pesticides in imported vegetables

Imported vegetables appear no more likely to be contaminated with pesticides than Australian produce.

5 Mar 2010 | Our random test of common canned and frozen vegetables showed little cause for concern.

Plastic-food-containers  

Are chemicals from plastic food containers and wrapping as safe as the industry and regulators claim or are they slowly poisoning us?

7 Jan 2010 | There’s a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests some plastics are not as safe as we're led to believe.

Picking the right tomato

CHOICE discovers some delicious varieties of tomatoes to look out for - and how to pick them.

7 Oct 2009 | Tomatoes you find at the supermarket are often as hard and as tasty as cricket balls. But there are still some tasty tomatoes to be found.

Food steamers review and compare

Electric food steamers do what they claim, but which do it best?

7 Sep 2009 | Are steamers any healthier than other ways to steam food? CHOICE tested 15, looking at their ease of use and performace.

Grow your own vegetables

Survival gardening is part of a shift in consumer demand for more nutritious and tastier food.

5 Sep 2009 | As more people discover the savings and satisfaction of growing their own produce, CHOICE finds out how you can set up your own edible garden.

Potato product reviews

Some potato shapes that appeal to kids don’t make the nutritional grade.

7 Jul 2009 | Chips, fries or wedges can be handy to keep in the freezer but what is the true cost of this convenience?

Farmers markets

Should you trade in your supermarket trolley for food straight off the farm?

13 Feb 2008 | There’s no legislation defining farmers' markets in Australia—each has its own charter which sets out what the market allows and doesn’t. So can you be sure that farmers and producers are the ones getting your custom?

Organic food

Choosing organic food is easier than ever. But is it worth the extra money?

17 Jul 2007 | Not too long ago you had to go to special shops if you wanted organic food. Now you can find plenty in supermarkets, but mostly you’ll pay a pretty high premium over the cost of standard produce. Is it really worth it?

Are fresh vegies better?

Frozen vegetables can have higher levels of important nutrients, such as vitamin C, than fresh.

13 Mar 2007 | We wanted to compare the vitamin levels in a range of fresh raw, fresh cooked, frozen and canned vegies to see which were more nutritious.

Toasted muesli recipe  

Our food in focus is oats, packed full of nutritional goodies, and yummy in our muesli recipe.

4 Dec 2006 | This simple home made museli recipe is both delicious and healthy. It won't last long.

vegetarian-food

Fast food vegetarian 2012

How do the major chains stack up when it comes to healthy vegetarian fast food?

14 Jun 2012 | We've surveyed 12 national fast food chains and reviewed their online menus to see how their vegetarian offerings stack up nutritionally.

Vehicle

Small SUV tyre reviews  

Performance on sealed roads is what sets these SUV tyres apart.

15 Nov 2012 | We review 225 60R17 car tyres, which are suitable for many small SUVs on the Australian market.

Mazda 3 SKYACTIV first look

We take a look at Mazda's latest green car.

4 Apr 2012 | We've driven the Mazda 3 SKYACTIV for 3000km, to find out how it performs, how fuel efficient it is, and what makes it green.

VW BlueMotion first look

Some twists and turns make the BlueMotion another green option.

12 Mar 2012 | We take the VW BlueMotion for a spin to find out how it feels to drive, comfort of driving and other first impressions.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV First Look

We take a look at the first mass-produced electric car available to consumers in Australia.

20 Jan 2012 | We take the Mitsubishi i-MIEV for a spin and reveal how it feels to drive, and other first impressions.

Ford Fiesta Econetic recall

The potential exists for the occupants of the vehicle to be exposed to exhaust gases, which are poisonous.

13 Jan 2012 | Ford Motor Company of Australia Limited is recalling Fiesta Econetic vehicles sold nationally between 2nd September 2011 and 12th September 2011.

Holden Epica 2.0L recall

This vehicle has been recalled due to a potential manufacturing defect within fuel feed hose.

6 Dec 2011 | Holden Epica 2.0L vehicles, are being recalled due to a potential manufacturing defect within fuel feed hose.

Yamaha VMAX1700 recall

The engine may seize and the operator may not be able to restart the motor.

26 Oct 2011 | Yamaha Motor Australia Pty Ltd is recalling Yamaha VMAX1700 vehicles sold nationally.

Vento

Ceiling fan reviews

CHOICE compares 24 ceiling fans priced between $154 and $899.

5 Sep 2012 | If you don’t want to spend big bucks on air conditioning, ceiling fans offer a cheaper, energy-efficient cooling solution.

Verbatim

Portable storage drive reviews  

We test 10 portable storage drives including 2.5 inch hard drives and solid-state drives.

26 Mar 2012 | CHOICE tests 10 super-fast high capacity portable storage drives to see how they compare.

Viali

Pedestal and tower fan reviews

We find the best fans to keep you cool this summer.

27 Nov 2012 | We test 10 pedestal and tower fans, priced from $20 to $599, including models from Dyson, Kambrook, and Sunbeam.

Vicks

Digital baby thermometer reviews

A good thermometer is a must-have for any home with kids.

25 Jul 2012 | We review 10 digital probe thermometers that are suitable for babies and toddlers, as well as older children and adults.

Victa

Mulcher lawnmower reviews

Mulcher mowers can give you a greener lawn and greener environment.

25 Sep 2012 | In our updated test of 30 mulcher and catcher lawnmowers, we reveal which models keep your lawn looking its best.

Lawn trimmer reviews

Petrol, cordless or electric? We outline which lawn trimmer is best for your backyard.

7 Sep 2012 | We test 28 petrol, electric and cordless lawn trimmers (also known as whipper snippers), ranging from $49 to $399.

Hedge trimmer reviews

We check out cordless battery-powered and electric hedge trimmers priced from $59 to $299.

27 Aug 2012 | Electric and battery-powered hedge trimmers are handy for keeping wayward hedges at bay - but which type should you go for?

Lawn edger reviews

We look at petrol and electric lawn edgers priced from $139 to $449.

15 Aug 2012 | Lawn edgers provide a professional-looking finish to your backyard - but some are easier to use than others

Christmas gift guide

We've trawled our test results to bring you a range of great gift ideas.

16 Nov 2011 | From digital cameras to kitchen gadgets, our gift ideas cater to all budgets.

Video

Home theatre projectors

The best home theatre projectors can produce some very impressive images.

19 Mar 2013 | We've tested 10 home theatre projectors, ranging in price from $1799 to $3999, to reveal which have the best picture quality and are easiest to use.

MP3 and MP4 player reviews  

We compare two popular smartphones with the latest in media players.

15 Nov 2012 | See how the iPhone 4S and Samsung Galaxy III compare with the latest MP3 and MP4 players.

Photokina 2012

CHOICE heads to a major photographic trade show in Europe.

19 Sep 2012 | On Day 2 of Photokina 2012, Chris Ruggles takes a look at the latest cameras from Canon and Nikon.

102-107cm TV reviews  

Our updated report looks at the latest HD plasma and LCD televisions.

2 Feb 2012 | CHOICE puts the latest 102-107cm HD plasma and LCD televisions through their paces.

Keeping fit with consoles

Use the motion controller in the latest consoles to keep fit at home.

14 Apr 2011 | We asked 17 people to try out a selection of fitness, party games and multi-player titles on three consoles.

HD Set top boxes with USB review and compare

These devices are a cheaper alternative to a digital video recorder – but you only get what you pay for.

22 Jun 2010 | These products may save you money, but you'll have to compromise on features and performance.

3D-TV-Heads-Up

CHOICE brings the new Samsung 3D TV into the lab for a quick once over.

24 Feb 2010 | CHOICE gives its preliminary verdict on the new Samsung 3D TV, ahead of our full test of 3D models.

2009 Bloopers  

Nobody said we were perfect. And this video proves it.

17 Dec 2009 | Some of the best (or worst, depending on your viewpoint) highlights from our 2009 CHOICE videos.

Video editing software review and compare

Turn your home movies into feature films.

4 Mar 2007 | It takes time to find your way around video editing software.

Video cameras

Cheap vs expensive cameras in low light

See if you can spot which image was taken with the cheap camera.

6 May 2013 | We challenge you to choose the best image taken in low-light conditions by three cameras - the results may surprise.

Camcorder reviews

The latest dedicated digital camcorders offer more features and greater control.

4 Oct 2012 | We review 21 of the latest high definition (HD) camcorders, including models from Sony, Canon, JVC, Panasonic and Samsung.

Photokina 2012

CHOICE heads to a major photographic trade show in Europe.

19 Sep 2012 | On Day 2 of Photokina 2012, Chris Ruggles takes a look at the latest cameras from Canon and Nikon.

Gadget gift guide for Christmas

Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.

23 Nov 2011 | We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.

Pocket camcorder reviews

You don't have to pay a lot for high definition video these days.

23 Sep 2011 | CHOICE's latest pocket camcorder review has test results for 15 models priced from $179 to $499.

Camcorder HD and SD review and compare  

Compare test results, features and functions to find the best standard definition (SD) or high definition (HD) camcorder.

20 Nov 2009 | CHOICE reviewed 11 of the latest high definition (HD) and seven standard definition (SD) camcorders and our testers scrutinised every function and feature.

Digital camcorders buying guide  

Don’t worry too much about picture quality when shopping for a digital camcorder — it’s mainly their sound quality that sets them apart.

1 Jun 2009 | Whether it’s a holiday or your kids growing up, a digital camcorder can help you preserve your favourite memories in high, never deteriorating quality.

Video editing software review and compare

Turn your home movies into feature films.

4 Mar 2007 | It takes time to find your way around video editing software.

Video recorders

Home theatre projectors

The best home theatre projectors can produce some very impressive images.

19 Mar 2013 | We've tested 10 home theatre projectors, ranging in price from $1799 to $3999, to reveal which have the best picture quality and are easiest to use.

PVR reviews   

Take control of your TV with your personal video recorder.

1 Nov 2012 | We review 17 of the latest PVRs including models with DVD/Blu-ray drives, priced between $279 and $999.

Gadget gift guide for Christmas

Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.

23 Nov 2011 | We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.

HD set-top box reviews  

A high-definition set-top box is an inexpensive way to upgrade to digital TV.

13 Oct 2011 | We put 14 set-top boxes, priced from $80 to $150, through their paces, and find out which ones come out on top.

Pocket camcorder reviews

You don't have to pay a lot for high definition video these days.

23 Sep 2011 | CHOICE's latest pocket camcorder review has test results for 15 models priced from $179 to $499.

EPG review and compare

Electronic program guides (EPGs) are supposed to help Australians record their weekly TV fix, but how reliable are they?

2 May 2010 | CHOICE explains why electronic program guides fall short of the mark.

DVD recorders with DVR review and compare

At last, the replacement for the venerable VCR has finally gone HD.

12 Oct 2009 | CHOICE looked at the latest selection of digital solutions that not only record TV programs to an internal hard drive, but also play DVDs and record to a DVD.

EPGs

What’s an electronic program guide (EPG) and do you need one?

11 Aug 2009 | An electronic program guide is just a TV guide by another name. More than that, it's a useful tool for planning and organising your TV watching.

Beyonwiz personal video recorder

At first glance, the Beyonwiz DP-S1 seems to be an ideal PVR. But there are some issues that make it less than perfect.

4 Jan 2008 | CHOICE reviews the Beyonwiz personal video recorder.

Viewsonic

Home theatre projectors

The best home theatre projectors can produce some very impressive images.

19 Mar 2013 | We've tested 10 home theatre projectors, ranging in price from $1799 to $3999, to reveal which have the best picture quality and are easiest to use.

Tablet computer reviews  

Which tablet computer best suits your needs and budget?

12 Dec 2012 | Tablets are taking over personal computing. We test 57 models you can buy in Australia.

Virgin

Airline website booking traps  

We expose the website traps and surcharges that can blow out the cost of that bargain basement airfare.

25 Mar 2013 | Don't get stung with unexpected fees and charges when booking your next domestic flight.

Credit card surcharges

The end of excessive credit card surcharges is on the horizon.

7 Mar 2013 | As of 18 March, surcharges applied to credit cards will be capped at a reasonable cost for the retailer.

Top travelling tips for summer

If you're planning a holiday this summer, check out our checklist for a smooth break.

3 Jan 2013 | CHOICE puts together ten top tips to help you have a safe and happy holiday this season.

Mobile phone usage

We find out why excessive phone bills continue to top consumer-complaint lists in Australia.

16 Mar 2012 | Mobile service providers are supposed to be making bill shock a thing of the past, but weak regulatory intervention has allowed plenty of lingering aftershocks.

Credit card travel insurance reviews

Can you trust the complimentary travel insurance that comes with your credit card? We decipher the small print.

13 Dec 2011 | Many gold and platinum credit cards offer travel insurance, but the cover can vary.

Frequent Flyer failure

Unless you fly often, frequent flyer points won’t get you very far.

12 Oct 2011 | Scoring an airline ticket or an upgrade can be a tall order if you’re relying on Frequent Flyer rewards.

Virtual worlds

Digital Life

Virtual worlds could be the future of the internet.

13 Sep 2007 | There are different types of virtual worlds — some are more like games, some are chat forums and others simulate a life-like world.

Vision

Home theatre projectors

The best home theatre projectors can produce some very impressive images.

19 Mar 2013 | We've tested 10 home theatre projectors, ranging in price from $1799 to $3999, to reveal which have the best picture quality and are easiest to use.

Swimming-goggles-and-glaucoma

Wearing some kinds of goggles may increase intraocular pressure

11 Aug 2011 | Researchers have found that some goggles can cause increased fluid pressure in the eye, which may increase the risk of glaucoma.

Spectacles buying guide

A price war has broken out in the optical industry. CHOICE’s shadow shop will help you assess your next pair of specs – and save plenty.

2 Jul 2010 | Our price guide takes you through the confusing array of extras and options to explain exactly what you need to look for when shopping for specs.

3D-TV-Heads-Up

CHOICE brings the new Samsung 3D TV into the lab for a quick once over.

24 Feb 2010 | CHOICE gives its preliminary verdict on the new Samsung 3D TV, ahead of our full test of 3D models.

Vitamins

The vital vitamin D

Are you getting enough vitamin D?

18 Jan 2012 | Vitamin D deficiency has been described as a pandemic. We explain if you're at risk, and what you can do to get enough.

Pregnancy multivitamin supplements

Are they essential, or just a pricey gimmick?

1 Sep 2011 | There are plenty of specialist multivitamin on the market for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Can they be beneficial or are they just a gimmick?

Vitamin Enhanced Waters

These products come with a ‘healthy’ dose of spin.

7 Jan 2011 | For drinks that are essentially cordials with added vitamins, “nutrient-enhanced waters” are making a splash.

Food steamers review and compare

Electric food steamers do what they claim, but which do it best?

7 Sep 2009 | Are steamers any healthier than other ways to steam food? CHOICE tested 15, looking at their ease of use and performace.

Bottled juice supplements

Are juices that contain extra antioxidants or supplements better for you?

26 Feb 2009 | Fruit juices with exotic supplements have spread from juice bars onto the supermarket shelves. But are these juices with feel-good extras really better for you than straight juice?

Complementary medicines

Complementary medicines make a range of claims about their effectiveness, but these claims are not always backed up with sound evidence.

2 Dec 2008 | In some cases, complementary medicines can harm consumers’ health. Current regulatory action does not do enough to protect consumers.

Glucosamine

It’s a popular alternative treatment for osteoarthritis but does it really work?

8 May 2008 | Does glucosamine help relieve the pain of osteoarthritis? The latest research casts some doubt on the matter.

Superfruit jucies review and compare

Can juice from 'super' fruits — goji, noni, mangosteen or açai — really cure cancer?

16 Aug 2007 | Forget about an orange or apple — distrubtors say if you really want to keep the doctor away, you need to knock back a daily dose of "superfruit".

Access to information about drugs in Australia

Consumers have a right to know why some drugs are approved and some are not.

9 Jul 2007 | The Therapeutic Goods Administration do not disclose why certain drugs have been approved and others have not.

Wheatgrass juice

It's the health tonic of the moment, but where’s the evidence for its benefits?

23 May 2006 | If you believe the hype, wheatgrass can nourish the blood and detoxify poisons, purify the liver, rebuild the bloodstream and more — all before breakfast.

Detox kits review and compare

Been burning the candle at both ends?

5 Oct 2005 | A week or two on a detox program won’t absolve you from a year of unhealthy eating, smoking or drinking too much alcohol.

Multivitamins

Do you really need to take one?

6 Jan 2005 | Research shows that a balanced diet is still the best way to get your vitamins and minerals, and that diets high in whole grains, vegetables and fruit reduce the risk of cancers and other diseases.

Vitasoy

Milk alternatives review

If you can't or won't drink cow's milk, what are your options?

26 Apr 2012 | We review soy, rice, oat, coconut and almond non-dairy milk alternatives to see how they stack up nutritionally.

Vodafone

Novelty phone handsets

We've checked out a number of novelty handsets for designed for use with a mobile phone. But how well do they work?

4 Mar 2013 | We put five retro handsets and one bluetooth glove designed for use with a mobile phone through their paces.

Vodafone fails consumers again

Vodafone has announced changes to the way it bills its prepaid customers for data.

15 Jan 2013 | In a move sure to infuriate its prepaid customers, Vodafone has changed the way it bills them for data.

Apple iPhone 5 heads up

We look at some of the features on offer and what you can expect to get once it arrives.

18 Sep 2012 | The iPhone 5 due is due for release next week, and we check out some of its new features.

Mobile phone usage

We find out why excessive phone bills continue to top consumer-complaint lists in Australia.

16 Mar 2012 | Mobile service providers are supposed to be making bill shock a thing of the past, but weak regulatory intervention has allowed plenty of lingering aftershocks.

VoIP

Novelty phone handsets

We've checked out a number of novelty handsets for designed for use with a mobile phone. But how well do they work?

4 Mar 2013 | We put five retro handsets and one bluetooth glove designed for use with a mobile phone through their paces.

Global roaming SIMs

Don't get stung by bill shock when travelling overseas with your mobile phone.

18 Dec 2012 | Curb bill shock with a pre-paid roaming SIM and our useful tips for limiting phone calls and data usage while overseas.

Landline phone reviews

We test 14 landline phones, priced from $55 to $399.

10 Sep 2012 | We review a range of landline phones, including phones that communicate with your smartphone, and others that can work in a blackout.

Do you need a landline

Should you think about ditching your home phone altogether or is there life in the tried-and-true service yet?

9 Feb 2011 | We look at existing landline and mobile options as well as some cutting-edge alternatives.

Hidden fees in phone cards

CHOICE uncovers the hidden traps with international prepaid phone cards and what their blaring posters don’t tell you.

25 Sep 2009 | Extra costs, such as “service” fees that gobble up credit even when you’re not making calls are often not advertised on the posters or phone cards.

Save with VoIP and naked DSL

Can using VoIP with Naked DSL cut your phone bill in half?

21 Jan 2009 | VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and uses an Internet connection to make and receive telephone calls.

VoIP routers review and compare

Using VoIP can save you money, but you need the right hardware to do it — so we put seven VoIP capable modem routers to the test.

21 Jan 2009 | There’s a lot of talk about the cost advantages of moving to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), for both long-distance and local calls as well.

Cordless phones review and compare

Cordless phones remain a fixture in most Australian homes.

5 Dec 2008 | In an effort to keep cordless phones relevant, manufacturers have introduced extra features, such as support for SMS, Bluetooth wireless headsets and even the ability to make calls over the internet.

Cordless phones buying guide

What to look for when buying a digital cordless phone.

25 Jun 2008 | Digital cordless phones are about to push analogue models off the market. They provide better sound quality and encrypt your conversation, so eavesdropping is less likely to be an issue.

Cut Phone Costs With Skype

Saving money with internet telephony with Skype.

3 Apr 2007 | Long-distance phone calls can keep you in touch with far flung friends and loved ones, but you don’t want to have to mortgage your house to pay for them.

VoIP headsets

Heard the buzz about VoIP and want to know what all the fuss is about?

4 Jun 2006 | We’ve tested six headsets that can plug into your computer to make phone calls over the internet.

Volkswagen

Hybrid cars

Fed up with high petrol prices? A hybrid or electric car might be one answer.

27 Jun 2012 | We test-drove the fuel-efficient petrol, hybrid and electric models currently available in Australia and found there's a lot to like, plus some trade-offs.

VW BlueMotion first look

Some twists and turns make the BlueMotion another green option.

12 Mar 2012 | We take the VW BlueMotion for a spin to find out how it feels to drive, comfort of driving and other first impressions.

Volta

Stick vacuum cleaner reviews

We test 12 stick vacuums, ranging in price between $100 and $459.

26 Sep 2012 | These stick vacuums are handy around the home and most separate into a handheld vac as well.

V-Zug

Washing machine reviews  

We’ve tested more than 50 washing machines, including models from Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, LG and Midea.

10 May 2013 | Find out which models compare favourably when assessed for dirt removal, rinse performance and water and energy efficiency.

Dishwasher reviews  

We take the guesswork out of buying your next dishwasher, with models from Asko, Bosch, Miele and Westinghouse among those on test.

9 Apr 2013 | We've rated 20 dishwashers on their washing and drying performance, energy and water efficiency.