At-home HIV testing allows you to take control of your sexual health without needing to visit a doctor.
There’s no need to take time off work and no awkward questions to answer, but you still get speedy and reliable results.
Following weeks of research into dozens of testing companies, I’ve found the best at-home HIV tests that are affordable, trustworthy, and confidential.
Short on time? Here are the best at-home HIV tests
- LetsGetChecked – Our top pick for HIV testing, with fast results and excellent support from experienced nurses.
- Everlywell– Affordable HIV testing, with free delivery and complimentary consultation for positive results.
- MyLAB Box – Variety of HIV testing, with both individual and panel screening.
- Plus 7 more great HIV tests | Comparison Table | FAQs
Screen for HIV with LetsGetChecked!
What We Look For in the Best At-home HIV Tests
During our research, we kept in mind a number of important criteria, including:
- Fast and reliable results – You shouldn’t be experiencing any overly long anxious waits for your results and you should be able to trust that they are reliable.
- Discreet testing – Test kits should be delivered in unmarked packaging and lab-based testing companies should take steps to protect your privacy.
- Experienced support – A positive HIV result can be a concerning experience, so it’s important that there is access to a medical consultation to discuss the next steps and treatment options.
- Value-for-money – We checked that you got what you paid for with no costly add-ons.
- Test variety – We looked for companies that have both individual HIV tests and panel tests that including screening for HIV.
Our Best At-home HIV Test Reviews (2024 Update!)
1. LetsGetChecked – #1 for At-home HIV Testing
- Several panels including HIV screeing
- Fast and free shipping both ways
- Consultation with an experienced nurse
- Results in 2-5 days
LetsGetChecked gets the top spot on our list of best HIV tests as it has affordable and discreet HIV testing, plus excellent support.
There are no individual tests for HIV, but screening for the infection is included in two of LetGetChecked’s panel STI tests, including Complete 11, which gives you a comprehensive look at your sexual health
We found it easy to order our test online and were impressed with the fast and free delivery. Our kit was shipped in discreet packaging to protect our privacy and it contained all we needed to collect our blood sample at home.
Don’t worry if you’re a little squeamish about collecting your own blood sample. Our researcher confirmed it was quick and painless, using the fingerprick tool provided. Free prepaid packaging is provided to send your samples back to the lab with express shipping.
Once the lab received our sample, our confidential results were delivered to our secure online account in just three days. The usual return time for results is 2-5 days.
We found the report easy to understand, but if you do want more clarity on your results, we found the free nurse consultation extremely helpful. If you test positive for HIV they will be able to talk you through the next steps and treatment options.
The only slight catch to at-home testing for HIV with LetsGetChecked is that you must collect your sample Monday to Thursday and ship it the same day. However, our test taker did not find it to be an inconvenience.
Get Tested for HIV with LetsGetChecked!
2. Everlywell – Affordable HIV Test
- Individual HIV Tests
- Support for positive results
- FSA/HSA accepted
- Results in 2-5 days
Everlywell offers an affordable HIV test, as well as screening for the STI in its male and female panel tests. Our test taker found it easy to order their HIV test online and was pleased that their FSA card was accepted.
Our kit was delivered in just a few days in nondescript packaging and our researcher had no issues collecting their blood sample thanks to clear and concise instructions.
Prepaid unmarked packaging is provided, so it was just a case of popping our samples in the nearest postbox and waiting for our results. They arrived 3 days after the accredited lab received our sample, and you can expect yours in just 2 to 5 days.
If your results are abnormal, one of Everlywell’s physicians will contact you directly to discuss your particular case, as well as provide information on the next steps and how to access treatment.
Everlywell is a great choice for regular HIV and STI screening as a whole as they offer a membership program for significant savings on monthly testing.
We were slightly disappointed that the options for STI testing are quite limited compared to some of the other providers on this list, with screening for herpes no longer available. That being said, if you’re just interested in learning your HIV status, Everlywell is a great choice.
Get Tested for HIV with Everlywell!
3. MyLAB Box – Fast Results & Free Consultation
- Several HIV testing options
- Free 2-day shipping
- Complimentary consultation for positive results
- Results in 2-5 days
MyLAB Box offers both an individual HIV test and a variety of STI panels that include testing for HIV. We loved that they offer a panel that offers complete screening for couples with their Love Box, which includes screening for HIV along with six other common STIs.
Our at-home HIV test was delivered fast and free in discreet packaging, and it took less than a few minutes for our test taker to collect their blood sample. It’s completely non-invasive, requiring just a quick and painless prick of the finger with the sterile lancet provided
Prepaid return packaging is provided and you can expect your results within 2 to 5 days of the lab receiving your sample. Ours were delivered to our secure online account in just four days and they were easy to follow.
Something else we loved about MyLAB Box is that they offer a PrEP panel that screens for all the STIs required to start and continue PrEP medication. The once-a-day prescription pill is a safe and effective way of preventing HIV infections, especially for those at increased risk of exposure.
We appreciate that if you test positive, you can talk through your concerns with a physician in your state, free of charge. You also have the option of professional STD counseling, which can be requested by emailing customer service. It may take a few days to get a reply, which could prove to be an anxious wait when you’re dealing with your HIV.
However, it’s a shame that there is no option for support if you test negative, but still have some concerns about your HIV status, or have questions about the testing process.
Get Tested for HIV with MyLAB Box!
4. STDCheck.com – Convenient Same-Day HIV Testing
- Several HIV testing options
- HIV RNA early detection test available
- Consultation for positive results
- Results in 1-2 days
There are no anxious waits for an HIV test kit to arrive with STDCheck.com thanks to same-day testing at over 4,500 testing centers across the country.
Our researcher found it easy to order their test through the website and was directed to the nearest testing center. You don’t need to make an appointment and as there was no lengthy paperwork to fill in, our test taker reported that the whole process took less than 30 minutes.
Your confidential results are usually available within 48 hours and we received ours in just a little over 24 hours after visiting the testing center.
If you test positive, you’re offered a phone consultation with a doctor, however, our researcher was surprised to discover this cost an extra $95, which does drive up the price of a cheap HIV test significantly.
STDCheck.com has a cheap HIV test, screening for the infection in a 10-test panel, and an HIV RNA early detection test. We love that they offer an early detection test as it can identify an HIV infection in as little as 9 to 11 days after exposure. This allows you to learn your HIV status as soon as possible.
Get Tested for HIV with STDCheck.com!
5. Priority STD – Fast & Reliable HIV Testing
- Several HIV test options
- 4,000+ private collection facilities nationwide
- No appointment needed
- Results in 1-3 days
Priority STD has several HIV testing options, including an individual test, an early detection HIV test, and screening for the infection in a 10-test panel.
Same-day HIV testing is available without an appointment at 4,000+ testing facilities and our researcher had no waiting time. They reported that providing their blood sample was quick and painless thanks to experienced staff, who didn’t ask any awkward questions.
The result report was easy to understand and was delivered in less than 48 hours of visiting the lab. And there will be no anxious wait for you, as results are usually delivered within 3 days.
We liked that STI consultations are not just available to review your positive results, but also if you have any questions at all about testing, and to help schedule treatment. Just call up to speak to one of Priority STD’s sexual health counselors.
However, after a little through the website, we found that if you want a consultation with a physician will cost $95.
Get Tested for HIV with Priority STD!
6. OraQuick – Oral HIV Testing
- FDA-approved oral swab HIV test
- Support available for positive results
- Results in just 20 minutes
What sets OraQuick apart from its competitors is that it’s an FDA-approved oral swab test for HIV. That’s right, no blood sample is required, just a simple swab of the gums.
Our test kit was delivered in discreet packaging and contained simple instructions for collecting our swab sample. Our test taker confirmed it was easy to both take their sample and to complete the test themselves.
You can’t eat, drink, or use oral care products for 30 minutes before taking the test, but our test taker didn’t find that to be an inconvenience.
In just 20 minutes, you will know if you have tested positive or negative for HIV. While it’s disappointing that there is no physician consultation for a positive result, you can speak to one of OraQuick’s trained professionals via a toll-free number 24/7, 365 days a year.
In a clinical study, the ORA has been shown to be effective over 90% of the time for positive results and over 99% accurate for negative results. That being said, you are strongly advised to get your results confirmed by your healthcare provider.
Get Tested for HIV with OraQuick!
7. Health Testing Centers – At-home and Clinic HIV Testing
- At-home and lab-based HIV testing
- Individual and panel HIV testing options
- 3,000+ testing centers
- Results in 3-4 days
Health Testing Centers offers both lab-based and at-home HIV tests, with several testing options. Whether you choose an individual HIV test, an early detection HIV test, or HIV screening as part of a panel, you can head to your nearest testing center for same-day testing.
You can schedule an appointment online for one of Health Testing Centers’ 3,000+ testing facilities, but our researcher attended as a walk-in patient and was seen within 10 minutes.
Our results were available in just 2 days after providing our sample, but you may receive your results in as little as 24 hours.
We also tested out at-home HIV screening from Health Testing Centers and it was quite a long wait for the kit to arrive – 7 days after ordering. However, the kit was delivered in unmarked packaging with free shipping both ways. Plus, results were delivered in four days, which was quicker than expected.
While Health Testing Centers do give free physician consultations for some positive STI results, this is not the case for HIV. If you want extra clarity on your results, you may get some extra information from the customer support team, but you’re probably better off talking to your health care provider.
Get Tested for HIV with Health Testing Centers!
8. Walk-in Lab – Several HIV Testing Options
- Numerous HIV test options
- No appointment required
- 3,700+ lab locations nationwide
- Results in 1-8 days
Walk-in Lab offer several HIV testing options, including STI panels, an individual HIV test, and HIV early detection, as well as the CD4:CD8 ratio test, which analyzes disease progression and monitors treatment.
Our researcher had no issues ordering their test online, but although Walk-in Lab has a variety of at-home tests, there are no at-home HIV kits.
As the name suggests, walk-ins are accepted, but our test taker made an appointment at their nearest testing location as they were on a tight schedule. Our researcher reported that the process was smooth from start to finish, taking less than 10 minutes.
You can expect your results in as little as 24 hours, but times can vary. We were notified our results were ready to view two days after our researcher provided his blood sample.
Unfortunately, there is no medical consultation for a positive result, which is disappointing as a diagnosis for HIV has life-long implications.
Get Tested for HIV with Walk-in Lab!
9. HealthLabs – HIV Results within 48 Hours
- Convenient and affordable HIV testing
- Specialist testing panels available
- 4,500+ CLIA-certified testing locations
- Results in as little as 24 hours
Get same-day HIV testing at one of HealthLabs’ 4,500+ testing centers across the US and get your results in as little as 24 hours.
We love that as well as individual HIV tests, HealthLabs also offers a number of specialist panels that include testing for HIV. They include the Early Detection Comprehensive Panel, which includes early detection testing for seven STIs, including HIV.
You don’t need an appointment, and like our researcher, you should be in and out within around 30 minutes. Our results were ready in 48 hours and you can expect your results within 72 hours of visiting the lab.
There is unlikely to be a doctor consultation, but HealthLabs does have certified health specialists that can walk you through your results and provide advice if needed.
Get Tested for HIV with HealthLabs!
10. Personalabs – STD Counseling for Positive Results
- Same-day HIV testing at over 2,300 locations
- Individual and panel HIV testing
- STD counseling available
- Results in 2-5 days
Personalabs offers both individual HIV tests and screening for HIV in their specialist STI panels, which includes a Fighter Panel Blood Test, which is specifically designed for competitors involved in combative sports.
We loved that Personalabs also offer a CD4 T- Cell Count blood test, which helps determine the strength of your immune system if you have been diagnosed with HIV. Regular testing can help determine how well your HIV treatment is managing the infection.
You can head to your nearest test location as soon as your order has been approved. Our researcher did just that and there was no wait time and samples were provided with complete confidentiality at all times.
Our results came through in just 3 days, but as the wait time is dependent on your testing provider and location, you could be waiting up to 10 days.
STD counseling is available for positive HIV results, which involves one of Personalab’s on-staff doctors calling you to notify you of your results, as well as discuss what’s next for you.
Get Tested for HIV with Personalabs!
What’s in the Fine Print?
We’ve researched each HIV test provider thoroughly, to make sure you don’t get stung by any extra costs or other nasty surprises.
The good news is that almost all the at-home HIV testing companies provide free shipping both ways for your test kit, so you won’t have any extra costs sending your samples back to the lab. The only exception is OraQuick which charges up to $25 for express shipping.
Usually, you can expect to get your medical consultation for a positive HIV result for free, however, we found that STDCheck.com charge $65 and Priority STD charge $95, to discuss your results with a physician.
Due to regulatory reasons, some providers can’t send out at-home test kits or perform clinic-based testing in certain states. For example, most providers can’t offer their services in New York state, but others may be excluded depending on the company. Before ordering, make sure that your desired HIV test is available in your location.
How Accurate are At-home HIV Tests?
The tests on this list are highly accurate, boasting 99% accuracy for HIV screening. However, as no at-home HIV test is 100% accurate, a positive result should be followed up with additional testing by your healthcare provider to confirm the result.
Furthermore, there are a number of factors that may affect the accuracy of an at-home HIV test, including:
- Contamination or improper handling of your blood sample
- Whether you follow the test instructions correctly
- When you take the test as HIV takes time to be detectable in your samples.
What Will the Result from an At-home HIV Test Tell Me?
With all the STI testing companies on this list, you should find your HIV test result easy to understand. They will simply tell you if you have tested positive or negative for the infection, determined by the presence or absence of HIV antibodies or antigens in your blood sample. In rarer cases, your test results may be inconclusive, and you will be required to undergo further testing.
Many of the companies on this list, including Everlywell and LetsGetChecked, offer free consultations for positive results, to provide support and answer any questions you may have. It’s always advisable to take your positive results to your doctor for confirmation testing and to discuss treatment options.
How Do Our Top Picks Compete on Price?
The best value-for-money HIV test comes from LetGetChecked. Although they don’t have any individual HIV tests, they do have affordable panels that give you a more thorough assessment of your sexual health. Plus, you’ll get free express shipping both ways and a free consultation with an experienced nurse.
Everlywellcomes a close second, with its HIV test costing just $49, which also includes a free medical consultation. Plus, you can lower the cost further to $24.99 by signing up for an Everlywell membership for a low monthly fee.
The cheapest HIV test comes from OraQuick at just $39.99, but you will have to pay at least $10 for shipping and there’s no consultation.
STDCheck.comhas the cheapest HIV test at just $49 and while you do have to provide your samples in person, you’ll benefit from quick results. However, the price goes up significantly if you want to discuss your results with a doctor, with a consultation fee of $95. The rest of the lab-based tests are similarly priced between $68 – $79, with Personalabs the most expensive at $97.
These are primarily the costs of individual HIV tests. Panel tests which include HIV screening are more expensive but may provide better value-for-money as they test for multiple infections.
Which At-home HIV Test is Best?
Our top pick for at-home HIV testing is LetsGetChecked. While they don’t have the cheapest HIV test or even an individual HIV test, they come out on top as they are fast, reliable, and have the best customer support.
Everlywell is also a great choice, particularly for regular HIV (and other STI ) testing, not only because they are affordable, but they also have a membership program for big savings on selected monthly tests.
For comprehensive STI screening – including testing for HIV – you might choose MyLAB Box as they have a wide selection of panel tests.
If you’re looking for quick results, choose a lab-based testing company – our favorite is STDCheck.com – for same-day testing and results in as little as 24 hours.
Comparison Table
| Sample Method | Discreet Shipping | Medical Consultation | Time to Results | Starting Price | |
| LetsGetChecked | Blood | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 day | $149.00 |
| Everlywell | Blood | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $69.00 |
| MyLAB Box | Blood | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $79 |
| STDCheck.com | Blood | N/A | ✔ | 1-2 days | $49 |
| Priority STD | Blood | N/A | ✔ | 1-3 days | $79 |
| OraQuick | Oral Swab | ✔ | ✘ | 20 minutes | $39.99 |
| Health Testing Centers | Blood | ✔ | ✘ | 3-4 days | $79 |
| Walk-in Lab | Blood | N/A | ✘ | 1-3 days | $68 |
| Health Labs | Blood | N/A | ✘ | 1-3 days | $49 |
| Personalabs | Blood | N/A | ✔ | 2-5 days | $97 |
Bottom Line
With an at-home HIV test, you can accurately determine your HIV status by collecting your samples from the privacy of your own home. While initially, you don’t need to take time off to visit a doctor, you should get your results confirmed by your personal physician as soon as possible.
Our top pick is LetsGetCheckedas they offer affordable HIV testing, with an informative report and excellent follow-up support from a team of experienced nurses.
If you want to take a comprehensive look at your sexual health, take a look at our best at-home STI tests.
Best At-home HIV Tests in 2024
- PrioritySTD
FAQs
What are the symptoms of HIV?
A few weeks after being infected with HIV, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fever and/or chills
- Fatigue and extreme tiredness
- Unexplained rashes
- Night sweats
- Muscle aches and pains
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Mouth ulcers
As these symptoms are often mistaken for a cold or the flu, it’s important to screen for HIV regularly to prevent the infections from going unnoticed. Plus, the initial symptoms of HIV usually disappear within a few weeks to a month, and you may experience no further symptoms for many years
It’s so important to catch an HIV infection early as it can be managed very successfully with antiretroviral therapy. They can slow down the damage of the infection by reducing the amount of the virus in your blood.
However if left undetected, and therefore untreated, HIV will continue to attack your immune system and develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Symptoms of AIDS include:
- Rapid and unexplained weight loss
- Extreme tiredness and fatigue
- Soaking night sweats
- Prolonged fever, chills, and lymph node swelling
- Persistent headaches
- Chronic diarrhea
- Skin lesion
- Unusual infections
Who should take an at-home HIV test?
Everyone between the age of 18 and 65 should be screened for HIV at least once a year. Additionally, an at-home HIV test is recommended for you if:
- You’re concerned you’ve been exposed to an STI
- You have had unprotected sex with a new partner or multiple partners
- You’re a man who has sex with men
- You’ve had unprotected sex with some at high risk of HIV
- You’ve shared injection needles
When should you take an HIV test?
It takes time for an HIV infection to be detectable in your sample. This is known as the window period and most people will have detectable HIV antibodies in between 2 to 3 weeks after exposure. However, in rarer cases, it may take up to 3 months, so if you do test 3 weeks after potential exposure and test negative, you may want to test again in three months, just to be sure.
However, if you’re anxious to know your status sooner, you can take an HIV RNA Early Detection Test in just 9-11 days after exposure.
How do I take an HIV test at home?
It’s very easy to take an HIV test at home. In most cases, all it takes is a simple fingerprick blood sample, which is completely painless and done in just a few moments. OraQuick is slightly different, requiring a quick swab of the gums, which is also painless.
With lab-based providers, you’ll need to head to a testing center to provide your blood sample, but our researcher confirmed that experienced staff made the experience comfortable and quick.
