Best Drying Rag For Car: Practical Features for Easier Everyday Use

The Best Drying Rag For Car delivers fast, low-lint water removal without dragging harsh edges across paint, making it useful for routine washing, detailing, and larger vehicles. The products here range from compact 12.5-inch cleaning cloths to large 36-inch twisted-loop towels, so the right option depends on how much water you handle and how easily you want to maneuver the fabric. High-GSM microfiber generally signals a denser towel, while waffle, twist-loop, and hybrid weaves offer different approaches to wicking moisture.

Pack size matters too: a single oversized towel can simplify a full-car dry, while multi-packs provide separate cloths for paint, glass, trim, and interior work. Consider surface safety, storage, washing, and the risk of lint or streaks before choosing.

The Best Drying Rag For Car depends on vehicle size and drying style. For broad coverage, SMINDER, Blackline, ExoForma, The Rag Company Liquid8r, and Chemical Guys Gray Matter offer large formats from 24 by 36 to 25 by 36 inches. For a multi-cloth setup, Amazon Basics provides 12 16-inch towels, while Chemical Guys Workhorse offers three.

Twist-loop options emphasize high-capacity drying; waffle weave favors water wicking across a large surface; smaller cloths are easier for trim, glass, and controlled detailing.

Comparing the Best Drying Rag For Car Options

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	SMINDER 2-Pack 1200 GSM Car Drying Towels – Microfiber Towels for Cars (36" x 24"), Ultra-Absorbent, Streak-Free, Scratch-Free, No Water Spots, Double-Twist Pile & Edgeless Design Best for: Ultra-absorbent microfiber Brand: SMINDER | Color: Gray	View on Amazon
Best Pick 2	Chemical Guys, Workhorse Plush Microfiber Towels, 16 x 16 in, Black, 3 Pack Best for: Plush detailing Brand: Chemical Guys | Color: Black	View on Amazon
Best Pick 3	Blackline Microfiber Car Drying Towel 24"x36", 1300GSM Twisted Loop Best for: Twisted loop weave Brand: Blackline | Color: Charcoal Grey	View on Amazon
Best Pick 4	ExoForma Mega Car Drying Towel – Holds Up to 9 lbs, No Streaks, Scratches, or Water Spots | 1200 GSM Microfiber Double Twist Pile & Edgeless Design, 1 Quick & Effortless Dry – 24” x 36” Best for: High capacity drying Brand: ExoForma | Color: White	View on Amazon
Best Pick 5	Amazon Basics Microfiber Car Drying Towels, Highly Absorbent, Lint Free, Scratch Free, Ultra-Soft, Car Detailing, Buffing and Polishing, 16" x 16", Yellow, 12-Pack Best for: Lint-free polishing Brand: Amazon Basics | Color: Yellow	View on Amazon

How We Compared These Products

We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from SMINDER, Chemical Guys, Blackline, ExoForma, Amazon Basics, HOMEXCEL, The Rag Company, and USANOOKS.

The shortlist includes products such as SMINDER 2-Pack 1200 GSM Car Drying Towels – Microfiber Towels for Cars (36 x 24), Chemical Guys, and Blackline Microfiber Car Drying Towel 24×36. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.

Detailed Reviews: Best Drying Rag For Car

1. SMINDER 2-Pack 1200 GSM Car Drying Towels – Microfiber Towels for Cars (36″ x 24″), Ultra-Absorbent, Streak-Free, Scratch-Free, No Water Spots, Double-Twist Pile & Edgeless Design

Best for: Large vehicle drying.

The SMINDER 1200 GSM car drying towel offers a generous 36" x 24" size, enabling a flawless, streak-free, and water spot-free finish in just one pass. Its advanced microfiber and double-twist pile technology efficiently absorbs up to an entire gallon of water, making it ideal for high-performance drying of larger vehicles.

This SMINDER car drying towel, measuring 36" x 24", utilizes a 1200 GSM microfiber with a double-twist pile and an edgeless design for superior water absorption and a scratch-free finish. The advanced material and construction allow it to soak up approximately one gallon of water, significantly reducing the need for multiple passes or wringing. This makes the drying process more efficient, especially for larger vehicles. The paint-safe, scratch-free nature ensures delicate surfaces are protected while achieving a spotless shine.

Product Details

Pros

• Ultra-absorbent 1200 GSM microfiber
• Streak-free and spot-free drying
• Large 36" x 24" size
• Scratch-free and paint-safe design

Cons

• Item weight of 1.49 kg may be heavy for some users.

Ideal for car owners seeking a large, highly absorbent towel for efficient, one-pass drying. Its generous size and advanced microfiber ensure a spotless finish, though its weight might be a consideration for those preferring lighter options.

2. Chemical Guys, Workhorse Plush Microfiber Towels, 16 x 16 in, Black, 3 Pack

Best for: Detailing and general cleaning.

Chemical Guys Workhorse Plush Microfiber Towels, sized at 16" x 16", are crafted for versatile car cleaning and detailing. Their ultra-soft microfiber blend gently lifts dirt and dust without scratching, making them safe for delicate surfaces like paint, glass, and chrome.

These 16" x 16" Chemical Guys Workhorse towels feature a plush, high-quality microfiber blend designed to gently lift dirt, dust, and debris without causing scratches. This makes them exceptionally safe for delicate automotive finishes, including paint, glass, and chrome, as well as interior surfaces. The material is durable and suitable for various detailing tasks, from washing to drying and polishing. Their construction ensures they can handle sensitive jobs while providing effective cleaning performance.

Product Details

Pros

• Ultra-soft microfiber blend
• Scratch-free on delicate surfaces
• Versatile for washing, drying, and detailing
• Safe for paint, glass, and chrome

Cons

• Smaller 16" x 16" size may require more towels for larger vehicles.

Suitable for detail-oriented car owners who need versatile, soft towels for various cleaning tasks. Their gentle microfiber is excellent for delicate surfaces, but the smaller size means they are best for smaller vehicles or specific detailing jobs.

3. Blackline Microfiber Car Drying Towel 24″x36″, 1300GSM Twisted Loop

Best for: Heavy-duty vehicle drying.

The Blackline Microfiber Car Drying Towel boasts a substantial 1300 GSM fabric weight and a large 24" x 36" size, engineered for rapid, streak-free, and water spot-free drying. Its twisted loop technology ensures every drop of water is captured in a single pass.

This Blackline drying towel features a high 1300 GSM fabric weight and a generous 24" x 36" dimension, allowing for efficient water absorption and quick drying of entire vehicles. The twisted loop technology is designed to glide smoothly across surfaces, effectively lifting and trapping water droplets to prevent streaks and water spots. Its substantial size means fewer passes are needed to dry a car, truck, or SUV. The microfiber material is intended to be gentle on paintwork while handling significant amounts of water.

Product Details

Pros

• Extremely high 1300 GSM fabric weight
• Large 24" x 36" size for quick coverage
• Twisted loop technology for maximum absorption
• Achieves streak-free and spot-free results

Cons

• Requires a mild detergent without special additives for washing.

An excellent choice for users needing maximum water-holding capacity and speed for drying larger vehicles. Its high GSM and size make it highly effective, though proper washing with mild detergent is crucial for maintaining microfiber integrity.

4. ExoForma Mega Car Drying Towel – Holds Up to 9 lbs, No Streaks, Scratches, or Water Spots | 1200 GSM Microfiber Double Twist Pile & Edgeless Design, 1 Quick & Effortless Dry – 24” x 36”

Best for: Single-pass whole-car drying.

The ExoForma Mega Car Drying Towel, measuring 24" x 36", utilizes a 1200 GSM microfiber with a double twist pile and edgeless design to dry an entire car or truck in a single stroke. It absorbs more water than other towels, eliminating streaks, smears, and spots for an efficient, shiny finish.

This 24" x 36" ExoForma towel is designed for comprehensive drying, capable of covering an entire vehicle in one pass thanks to its 1200 GSM microfiber and double twist pile construction. The edgeless design further ensures a scratch-free experience across all surfaces. Its high absorbency means no wringing is required during the drying process, leading to a more efficient workflow and a streak-free, smear-free, and spot-free finish. The towel is machine washable for easy maintenance.

Product Details

Pros

• Dries entire car in one stroke
• 1200 GSM microfiber with double twist pile
• Edgeless design for scratch-free use
• Eliminates streaks, smears, and spots

Cons

• Comes as a single towel, potentially requiring additional purchases for multiple vehicles.

Perfect for drivers who value efficiency and a flawless finish, this large, highly absorbent towel is ideal for drying whole vehicles quickly. Its design minimizes streaks and spots, making it a great option for those who want a single tool for a complete dry.

5. Amazon Basics Microfiber Car Drying Towels, Highly Absorbent, Lint Free, Scratch Free, Ultra-Soft, Car Detailing, Buffing and Polishing, 16″ x 16″, Yellow, 12-Pack

Best for: Multi-purpose car cleaning pack.

The Amazon Basics Microfiber Car Drying Towels, in a 12-pack of 16" x 16" yellow cloths, offer high absorbency and a lint-free, scratch-free finish. Their ultra-soft, quick-drying microfiber is ideal for car detailing, buffing, and polishing delicate surfaces.

This 12-pack of 16" x 16" Amazon Basics microfiber towels features a double-sided design: one side with high pile microfiber for absorbing liquids and the other with low pile for buffing and polishing. The ultra-soft, quick-drying material leaves surfaces dry and free of streaks and lint. Its non-abrasive, plush texture ensures it won't damage or dull surfaces, making it suitable for use dry or with liquid cleaners. The 280 GSM fabric weight provides good absorbency for general car care tasks.

Product Details

Pros

• Comes in a convenient 12-pack
• Double-sided for absorbency and buffing
• Lint-free and scratch-free finish
• Ultra-soft and non-abrasive texture

Cons

• Lower 280 GSM fabric weight may be less absorbent than higher GSM towels for heavy drying.

A practical choice for car owners needing a versatile set of towels for various cleaning and finishing tasks. The multi-pack and dual-sided design offer value, though they are best suited for general use rather than heavy-duty water absorption.

6. HOMEXCEL Professional Large Microfiber Car Drying Towels 2 Pack, Lint Free, Scratch Free, Highly Absorbent Drying Towel for Cars, SUVs, RVs, Trucks, and Boats,31″ x 24″,Grey

Best for: Large vehicle drying pack.

The HOMEXCEL Professional Large Microfiber Car Drying Towels, a 2-pack of 31" x 24" grey cloths, are designed to be lint-free and scratch-free. Highly absorbent, they are suitable for drying cars, SUVs, RVs, trucks, and boats effectively.

This 2-pack of HOMEXCEL microfiber towels, measuring 31" x 24", offers substantial coverage for drying larger vehicles like cars, SUVs, RVs, trucks, and boats. Made from premium microfiber, these towels are engineered to withstand hundreds of washings while retaining their efficacy and softness. They are capable of absorbing up to 20 times their weight in liquid, allowing for quick pickup of water after washing. The extremely soft and non-abrasive fabric ensures effective cleaning and drying without scratching surfaces.

Product Details

Pros

• Highly absorbent (up to 20x weight)
• Lint-free and scratch-free
• Large 31" x 24" size
• Durable through hundreds of washes

Cons

• Specific GSM is not provided, making direct comparison difficult.

Ideal for owners of larger vehicles or multiple vehicles who need a durable, highly absorbent drying solution. The 2-pack offers good value, and their ability to withstand numerous washes makes them a long-lasting option for regular car care.

7. The Rag Company Liquid8r Car Drying Towel, Aqua Blue, 25×36 in, 1-Pack

Best for: High-capacity car drying.

The Rag Company Liquid8r Car Drying Towel, in an aqua blue 25" x 36" size, features a dense 1100 gsm twist-loop weave for high-capacity drying. Its premium microfiber blend rapidly absorbs water with fewer passes and less effort.

This 25" x 36" Liquid8r drying towel from The Rag Company is constructed with a dense 1100 gsm twist-loop weave, designed to quickly absorb large amounts of water. The 70% polyester and 30% polyamide microfiber blend ensures strong absorption while maintaining a paint-safe touch on vehicle finishes. Its robust construction and edge-to-edge softness are built to withstand repeated wash cycles and regular use, preserving its performance over time. This makes it suitable for efficient drying of cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Product Details

Pros

• Dense 1100 gsm twist-loop weave
• High-capacity water absorption
• Paint-safe touch
• Long-lasting build for repeated use

Cons

• Comes as a single towel, which might be less economical for multiple vehicles.

A premium choice for car enthusiasts seeking efficient, high-capacity drying with a focus on paint protection. Its substantial GSM and durable construction make it ideal for regular use, though purchasing multiple may be necessary for larger vehicles.

8. USANOOKS Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Grey – 12 Pcs (12.5″x12.5″) – High Performance – 1200 Washes, Ultra Absorbent Microfiber Towel Weave Grime & Liquid for Streak-Free Mirror Shine – Car Washing Cloth

Best for: All-purpose cleaning cloths.

The USANOOKS Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, a 12-pack of 12.5" x 12.5" grey cloths, feature a 10x Grip-Root weave designed to trap more liquid and grime. They are ultra-absorbent, capable of holding 8x to 10x their weight in liquid for a streak-free mirror shine.

This 12-pack of 12.5" x 12.5" USANOOKS microfiber cloths utilizes a unique 10x Grip-Root weave, engineered to effectively trap and lock away liquids, particulates, moisture, grime, and dirt. Each towel is 2.5mm thick, enhancing durability and grip during use. They are designed to prevent linting, scratching, pilling, swirling, shedding, or bleeding, ensuring a clean finish on automotive surfaces. Their high absorbency allows them to hold 8x to 10x their weight in liquid, facilitating efficient cleaning and drying.

Product Details

Pros

• High absorbency (8x-10x weight)
• 10x Grip-Root weave traps grime
• Lint-free, scratch-free, and pilling-free
• Comes in a convenient 12-pack

Cons

• Smaller 12.5" x 12.5" size is best for smaller areas or detailed cleaning, not large surface drying.

A practical and economical choice for general car cleaning and detailing tasks, especially for those who prefer smaller, multi-purpose cloths. Their strong grip weave and absorbency make them effective for tackling grime, but they are not ideal for drying large vehicle surfaces.

9. The Rag Company Gauntlet Car Drying Towel, Ice Grey/Grey, 20×30 in, 1-Pack

Best for: Fast-drying hybrid weave.

The Rag Company Gauntlet Car Drying Towel, a 20" x 30" ice grey/grey towel, features a patented twist-loop hybrid weave for ultra-fast drying. Its thick, super plush 900 gsm microfiber wicks moisture efficiently and is safe for delicate finishes.

This 20" x 30" Gauntlet drying towel from The Rag Company combines a patented twist-loop and plush stripe hybrid weave with a 900 gsm weight, designed for rapid water removal from paint, glass, and trim. The 70/30 AA-grade Korean split microfiber efficiently wicks moisture, while the ButterSoft suede microfiber border glides without scratching delicate finishes. This alternating weave pattern reduces drag and protects coatings, making it highly effective for absorbing heavy rinse water and ensuring a clean, dry surface.

Product Details

Pros

• Ultra-fast drying with hybrid weave
• Thick, super plush 900 gsm microfiber
• Paint-safe softness with suede border
• Wicks moisture efficiently

Cons

• The 20" x 30" size may require more passes for very large vehicles compared to larger towels.

An excellent option for car enthusiasts who prioritize speed and gentle drying on delicate surfaces. The hybrid weave and high GSM make it highly effective, and its paint-safe border ensures protection, making it suitable for meticulous detailing.

10. Chemical Guys, Waffle Weave Gray Matter Microfiber Drying Towel, 25 x 36 in

Best for: Waffle weave water absorption.

The Chemical Guys Waffle Weave Gray Matter Microfiber Drying Towel, sized at 25" x 36", features a unique waffle weave texture for maximum water absorption and streak-free drying. Its premium blend is soft and gentle on all vehicle surfaces.

This 25" x 36" Chemical Guys Gray Matter towel employs a distinctive waffle weave texture, which significantly increases its surface area and absorbency for fast, streak-free drying. The premium microfiber blend ensures superior softness and is gentle on delicate finishes like clear coat, glass, and chrome. Its soft-banded edges further contribute to safety by preventing scratches. The waffle weave design quickly wicks up water and liquids, making it perfect for drying larger vehicles like cars, trucks, and SUVs efficiently.

Product Details

Pros

• Waffle weave texture for maximum absorption
• 25" x 36" size for efficient drying
• Streak-free drying on all surfaces
• Soft and gentle on delicate finishes

Cons

• The bright gray color may highlight dirt, requiring more frequent flipping to avoid scratches.

Ideal for car owners seeking a highly absorbent towel with a unique texture for efficient water removal. Its waffle weave design and large size make it great for drying larger vehicles, ensuring a streak-free finish while protecting paintwork.

What Buyers Often Overlook

Size, coverage, and vehicle fit

The Best Drying Rag For Car should match the vehicle’s surface area and the amount of control you need while drying. Large towels measuring about 24 by 36 inches or 25 by 36 inches cover more panel area per pass, which suits trucks, SUVs, boats, and full-car drying. SMINDER, Blackline, ExoForma, The Rag Company Liquid8r, and Chemical Guys Gray Matter all use this larger format, although their constructions differ.

HOMEXCEL also provides a large two-pack listed at 31 by 24 inches, giving you a spare or a way to separate wetter and drier stages. A smaller 20 by 30-inch towel, such as The Rag Company Gauntlet, offers a more manageable middle ground for general vehicle work.

The 16 by 16-inch Amazon Basics towels and 12.5 by 12.5-inch USANOOKS cloths are easier to fold, carry, and use around mirrors, glass, trim, and interior areas, but they require more passes on a whole vehicle. Large towels can become cumbersome when saturated, while smaller towels trade coverage for handling and flexible task separation. Choose coverage first if you regularly dry large painted panels; choose compact dimensions if maneuverability matters more.

The Key Product Trade-Off

Weave, absorbency, and finish compatibility

Twist-loop towels are the strongest fit when the priority is moving a large amount of rinse water quickly. Blackline lists a 1300 GSM twisted-loop construction, while SMINDER and ExoForma use 1200 GSM double-twist pile designs; The Rag Company Liquid8r uses a 1100 GSM twist-loop weave. These dense options are aimed at fewer passes and high-capacity drying, but their larger, heavier formats may be less convenient for small areas.

The Rag Company Gauntlet takes a different approach with a 900 GSM hybrid of twist-loop and plush stripes, plus a soft suede microfiber border intended to reduce drag on paint, glass, and trim. Chemical Guys Gray Matter uses a waffle weave to increase surface area for water wicking, with soft-banded edges for finish safety.

Multi-purpose cloths offer another trade-off: Amazon Basics combines high-pile microfiber for absorption with low-pile microfiber for buffing and polishing, while Chemical Guys Workhorse is positioned for washing, drying, and detailing across paint, glass, chrome, and interiors. For lint-sensitive work, Amazon Basics and USANOOKS specifically list lint-free performance. Material alone does not determine fit; weave, edge treatment, size, and intended surface all matter.

Best Drying Rag For Car: Buyer's Guide

Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility

Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.

Capacity, Output, and Operating Format

Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.

Materials, Construction, and Care

Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.

Included Components and Setup Needs

Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.

Value, Longevity, and Warranty Signals

Judging long-term value means looking past the headline feature and weighing the construction details that decide how long a product keeps working. Check the listed materials, the finish on moving parts, and whether the manufacturer documents care, replacement parts, or a warranty period. A product that is easy to maintain and supported with clear care instructions usually costs less to own over time.

Compare what each listing actually states about durability rather than assuming that a higher specification automatically means longer service. Where a warranty or support term is not supplied, treat it as unknown and factor that uncertainty into the decision.

Common Fit and Compatibility Mistakes

Most disappointing purchases trace back to a mismatch that was visible in the listing before buying. Confirm the exact dimensions against the real space, check that connectors, mounts, or accessories match the existing setup, and verify the power, water, or installation requirements that the product depends on. Buyers also overlook included components, assuming that separately pictured parts are part of the package.

Read the supplied specifications line by line and compare them with the intended use, because a feature that looks ideal in isolation can still fail if it does not physically fit or integrate with what the buyer already owns.

Which Should You Choose?

The Best Drying Rag For Car is a large twisted-loop towel if you want to dry broad painted panels with fewer passes. Choose Blackline for the highest listed density at 1300 GSM, or select SMINDER or ExoForma for 1200 GSM large-format designs; SMINDER comes as a two-pack, while ExoForma is a single towel. For a large towel with a 70/30 microfiber blend and 1100 GSM twist-loop construction, consider The Rag Company Liquid8r.

If you prefer a hybrid surface and a softer border, The Rag Company Gauntlet is a more controlled 20 by 30-inch option. Chemical Guys Gray Matter suits buyers who prefer waffle weave and soft-banded edges.

Amazon Basics is practical for separating tasks across 12 smaller towels, while Chemical Guys Workhorse supplies three compact cloths. USANOOKS favors repeated general cleaning with a 12-pack, and HOMEXCEL offers two large towels for cars, SUVs, RVs, trucks, or boats.

Quick Buying Checklist

• Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
• Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
• Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
• Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
• Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
• Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a microfiber drying towel effective?

Microfiber drying towels are effective due to their split fibers, which create a larger surface area for trapping moisture and dirt. The material’s structure allows it to absorb significantly more water than traditional cotton towels. This high absorbency, combined with a soft texture, helps prevent scratches and streaks, leaving a clean, dry finish on your car’s surface.

How do GSM ratings affect drying towels?

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) indicates the density and thickness of a microfiber towel. Higher GSM ratings, such as 1200 or 1300, generally mean a plusher, more absorbent, and durable towel. These denser towels can hold more water and provide a gentler, scratch-free drying experience, making them ideal for automotive use where a pristine finish is desired.

Are edgeless designs beneficial for car drying towels?

Yes, edgeless designs are beneficial for car drying towels as they eliminate a common source of scratches and swirl marks. Traditional stitched edges can be abrasive. An edgeless design ensures the entire towel surface is soft and safe for delicate automotive paintwork, providing a more secure and scratch-free drying process for a flawless finish.

What is the difference between twisted loop and waffle weave towels?

Twisted loop towels, often with high GSM, excel at absorbing large amounts of water quickly and efficiently, making them great for initial drying. Waffle weave towels, characterized by their grid pattern, are excellent for buffing off waxes, polishes, and removing water spots due to their effective wicking and streak-free finish. Both have distinct drying applications.

How should I care for my microfiber drying towels?

To maintain microfiber drying towels, wash them separately from other laundry to prevent lint transfer. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners, as they can clog the microfiber’s pores and reduce absorbency. Machine wash on a gentle cycle with warm water, and tumble dry on low heat or air dry.

Proper care ensures longevity and performance.

Final Words

Selecting the best drying rag for your car involves considering its absorbency, softness, and ability to prevent scratches. High GSM microfiber towels, particularly those with a double-twist pile and edgeless design, offer superior water-holding capacity and a gentle touch on paintwork, minimizing the risk of water spots and streaks. For efficient drying, look for towels that are large enough to cover significant areas.

Proper maintenance through separate washing without fabric softener will ensure your chosen towel remains effective and safe for your vehicle’s finish over time, providing a streak-free shine after every wash. The right Best Drying Rag For Car is the one that best matches these factors to your setup.