Miata Coilovers – FAQ & Buyer’s Guide!

Miata coilovers provide a new setup for your vehicle. You can choose to lower your vehicle with a soft or stiff setup, but the best Miata coilovers are the only way to do it.

List of Top Miata Coilovers

ImageProductDetails
Mono-Tube shock design
GodSpeed Project MSS0150 review
GodSpeed Project MSS0150
  • Highly noticeable adjustments
  • Budget-friendly option
  • 15 points of adjustment

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Larger capacity for gas and oil
Rev9 R9-HS2-021 review
Rev9 R9-HS2-021
  • Steel alloy construction
  • Height adjustment
  • 32 click adjustment

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Easy installation
ZYauto CO-MX5-G-NA-UPC3 review
ZYauto CO-MX5-G-NA-UPC3
  • High level aluminum construction
  • NA and NB Miata compatible
  • 7 kg. front springs

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Mono-Tube shock design
BC Racing N-04-BR review
BC Racing N-04-BR
  • Independent height adjustment
  • Easy to adjustment
  • 30 click adjustment

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Great "ZT Coating"
Tein GSM64-8USS2 review
Tein GSM64-8USS2
  • Easy installation
  • Moderate height adjustment
  • 392 lb. front springs

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Fit for 1990-2005 Mazda Miata
ECCPP 065597-5211-1742586184 review
ECCPP 065597-5211-1742586184
  • Quality road feedback
  • Wide array of vehicles
  • 8 kg. front springs

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Designed for street use
Megan Racing MR-CDK-MMX590-EZ review
Megan Racing MR-CDK-MMX590-EZ
  • All hardware included
  • Budget friendly
  • 15 adjustment levels

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Monotube Design for Maximum Street
Eibach 5536.712 review
Eibach 5536.712
  • Stainless steel construction
  • Built in the USA
  • Up to 2.5” drop

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Micro-Polished Oversized Piston Shaft
Skunk2 Racing 541-10-1100 review
Skunk2 Racing 541-10-1100
  • Daily drivability
  • Independent height adjustment
  • 12 click adjustment

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Best Miata Coilovers
Yonaka Motorsports YMTC2006 review
Yonaka Motorsports YMTC2006
  • Monotube design
  • Rubber dust shield
  • 2-3” lowering

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Smooth out the suspension, whether you’re driving off-road or on a track. Coilovers adjust the height of the vehicle to any level while maintaining a quality ride. If you buy high quality you also keep comfort alongside the look you’re going for. The key is finding the perfect construction type, spring rate and dampening adjustment. Take a gander below to help you make the right choice.

Review of the Best Coilovers for Mazda Miata

1. GodSpeed Project MSS0150 – Best 1999 Miata Coilovers

This set includes everything from 4 coilovers and top hats. The pink color offers a bright accent for any vehicle. The coilovers are also designed for NA or NB Mazda Miatas. It works for any vehicle between the years 1990 and 2005, providing more versatility. The lowering options are up to 3” and the quality is decent for moderate to constant drivability.

Godspeed(MSS0150) MonoSS Coilover For Mazda Miata 90-05(NA/NB) Ver2 / With (2.75" EXTENDED TOP HAT)
  • Compatible With Mazda Miata MX-5 (NA/NB) 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005; 2.75" Extended Top Hat For Rear Strut To Provide More Shock Travel
  • 52mm Mono-Tube Stainless Steel Shock With 16 Levels of Damping Adjustment Corresponds to Daily Driving Scene To The Sunday Track
  • Performance Internal Piston With Koyo Japan 6204z Bearing Provides Smooth Stroke; Powder Coated CNC Machined Aluminum And Carbon Steel Accessories
  • Independent Spring Tension And Height Adjustment; Racing Grade Shock Oil With High Viscosity Index; Shock Absorber Can Be Rebuild When Worn Out
  • Full 1 Year Limited Warranty From Date Of Purchase; Install By Experienced Professionals Is Highly Recommended

For track users it can also offer a good setup and up to 15 points of adjustability. You can also set the ride height without having to tear everything apart.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants to ride track or street will be able to use these coilovers.

Why I like it:

It has 15 points of adjustment and fits NA and NB vehicles over a 15 year span.

Pros:

  • Noticeable adjustments
  • Budget-friendly option
  • Smooth ride

Specifications:

  • 15 points of adjustment
  • 0-3” lowering

2. Rev9 R9-HS2-021 – Best Tuning Coilovers For Miata

You’ll get all four springs with this monotube system. It offers 32 click adjustment as well as a pillow ball style. This specially designed system offers independent spring tension along with the chance to adjust height and more. If you’re interested in getting a stiffer or softer ride, the control and this system is made with steel alloy.

Rev9 R9-HS2-021 Hyper-Street II Coilover Suspension Lowering Kit, Mono-Tube Shock w/ 32 Click Rebound Setting, Full Length Adjustable, compatible with Mitsubishi Lancer (CX/CY) 2008-17
  • Compatible With Mitsubishi Lancer (CX/CY) 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017; Including Ralliart and Sportsback; Excluding Lancer Evolution Models
  • Spring Rate: Front - 5 kg/mm (280 lbs/inch) | Rear - 5 kg/mm (280 lbs/inch) // Top Mount: Yes, Pillow Ball Camber Plate | Yes, Standard Top Mount // Damping Levels: 32 Ways
  • Specially Designed Coil Springs Over Shock Kit To Lower The Vehicle Proper Way
  • Mono Tube Shock With Steel Alloy Body And Valving Allows 32 Clicks Rebound Force Adjustment; Independent Spring Tension And Ride Height Settings To Allow Stiffness And Ride Height To Be Adjusted Separately
  • These Coilovers are "Lowering Kit" and DOES NOT adjust to Factory Ride Height. No Installation Instructions; Install By Experienced Professionals Recommended

This provides the ability to fine tune everything, to get the perfect fit while maintaining the comfort level. They are adjustable all the way through and come with every item needed for installation.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants a great deal of control and adaptability as well as anyone who prefers a lighter weight system than similar options.

Why I like it:

It offers height adjustability and is made with durable steel alloy rather than the standard aluminum.

Pros:

  • Steel alloy construction
  • Height adjustment
  • Monotube design

Specifications:

  • 32 click adjustment
  • 7 kg. front springs
  • 8 kg. rear springs

3. ZYauto CO-MX5-G-NA-UPC3 – Best Budget Miata Coilovers

The orange color on these coilovers is unique, but it’s the price that puts them on this list. These are thrifty coilovers and offer a fixed damper. The height is adaptable and the unit works for Mazda Miatas NA and NB. The applicable years are 1989 to 2005.

The preload spring tension is alignable and the pillow ball top mount offers better noise reduction. You also get superior control and feel to the steering mechanism, and excellent tensile strength.

Coilovers for Mazda Miata MX5 MX-5 NA NB 1989-2005 Suspension Coil Spring Struts Shock
  • Fit for Mazda Miata MX5 MX-5 NA NB 1989-2005
  • Damper: Non Adjustable Damper
  • Front Spring rate:7 kg/mm (392 in/lbs); Rear Spring rate:6 kg/mm (336 lbs/in)
  • Adjustable hight: Yes; Adjustable camber plate: No
  • Quantity:2 piece front + 2 pieces rear

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants a budget-friendly option with everything necessary for installation.

Why I like it:

It comes in at a miserly price and has low distortion with height adjustment.

Pros:

  • Low budget product
  • High level aluminum construction
  • NA and NB Miata compatible

Specifications:

  • 7 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs

4. BC Racing N-04-BR – Best 1992 Miata Coilovers

This set is higher priced than others, however it comes with all 4 coilovers and works for Mazda Miata NA and NB vehicles from 1989 to 2005. This gives you a large range of utility and the BR Series is designed for street driving. It can be used for road courses and autocross, though this isn’t the primary purpose.

What’s most important is everything can be easily adjusted and you can modify the ride height without changing the shock stroke or spring preload.

BC Racing BR Series Coilovers compatible with 89-05 MAZDA Miata / MX5 - NA8C/NB8C
  • The BR Series Model is the perfect choice for street driving and the occasional road course or autocross duty
  • With easily accessible adjustment knobs for fine-tuning compression and rebound, ride height adjustment independent of shock stroke and spring preload, having a performance coilover system has never been easier
  • Custom Kits available (Contact us prior to ordering)
  • Front camber plates will be included only on applicable vehicles

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants a performance system with more control and fine-tuning.

Why I like it:

It allows height adjustment without modifying spring preload or shock stroke.

Pros:

  • Independent height adjustment
  • Easy to adjust
  • Ideal for street driving

Specifications:

  • 30 click adjustment
  • 10 kg. front springs
  • 8 kg. rear springs

5. Tein GSM64-8USS2 – Best 1990 Miata Coilovers

Designed for the 1990 to 1998 Mazda Miata NA or 1999 to 2005 Mazda Miata NB, this system gives a ride height modification from 1” to 2” depending on front or rear. The springs are sag-proof and extremely resilient, which makes them durable.

Plus they don’t rust, flake or peel because of the powder coating. The kit comes with everything to install them but they do need to be assembled. You get all four coilovers; for the front and back.

Tein GSM64-8USS2 Street Basis Z Coilover Suspension Kit for Mazda Miata
  • Fits 1990-1998 Mazda Miata (NA6C and NA8C) / 1999-2005 Mazda Miata (NB8C)
  • NA6C and NA8C: Ride Height Adjustment Range for Front: -1" to -1.8", Rear: -0.8" to -1.6"
  • NB8C: Ride Height Adjustment Range for Front: -1.3" to -2.0", Rear: -1.2" to -2.0"
  • NA6C and NA8C Ride Height Drop for Front: -1.4", Rear: -1.2"
  • NB8C Ride Height Drop for Front and Rear: -1.6"

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants a full kit for their NA or NB Mazda Miata that is durable and great looking.

Why I like it:

Sleek, easy to install and great riding. They offer some impressive steering responses.

Pros:

  • Smooth ride
  • Easy installation
  • Moderate height adjustment

Specifications:

  • 392 lb. front springs
  • 336 lb. rear springs

6. ECCPP 065597-5211-1742586184 – Best 1997 Miata Coilovers

Made for Mazda Miata vehicles from 1990 to 2005, this kit has green accents to provide a stylish look. The set offers all four coilovers and has interdependently adjustable struts. This allows for precise adjustments. You also get better steering performance and reduced cornering.

You’ll have adjustable ride height as well as adjustable camber plates and preloaded spring tension. This ensures minimal bounce and more comfortable shock adjustment options.

No products found.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants adjustability in the ride height and camber plate and to get a moderate bounce while staying comfortable.

Why I like it:

It offers independent adjustments for lower mounts to get better height adjustment and stroke at the same time.

Pros:

  • Quality road feedback
  • Wide versatility of vehicles
  • Highly adjustable

Specifications:

  • 8 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs

7. Megan Racing MR-CDK-MMX590-EZ – Best 1991 Miata Coilovers

The Megan EZ Street Coilovers are made for Mazda Miata’s from 1990 to 2005. The damper strength has 15 levels of adjustability and the kit comes with everything from aluminum brackets that don’t rust to rubber dust covers.

The monotube design offers high quality shocks and all the required pieces are included. You will get a 1-year warranty against any form of defects and the bright blue color creates a sleek look.

MEGAN RACING FULLY ADJUSTABLE EZ STREET SERIES COILOVER DAMPER KIT ( 15 WAY DAMPENING ADJUST ) 1989 - 2005 Mazda Miata MX-5 NA6 / NA8 / NB1 / NB2
  • Adjustable Ride Height With 15 Levels of Adjustable Damper Strength
  • Aluminum Brackets Paired With Rubber Inserts And Rubber Dust Covers
  • Shocks Are Single-Cylinder Design - Monotube
  • All Hardware is Included
  • All coil-over damper kits come with 1 year manufacture-defect warranty.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants high adjustability and durable mechanics backed by the manufacturer.

Why I like it:

It works for NA and NB vehicles between 1989 and 2005 and provides a more budget-friendly design.

Pros:

  • 1-year warranty
  • All hardware included
  • Budget-friendly

Specifications:

  • 8 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs
  • 15 adjustment levels

8. Eibach 5536.712 – Best Racing Coilovers for Miata

These coilovers are more expensive than others, but you’re getting a lot of value for the money. The monotube style of the system means more control. You’ll also have a remote reservoir. This, combined with the stainless steel construction of the struts means they are strong and protected from rust.

You can adjust the rebound as well as damping. These also allow compatibility with even more springs. You get better cornering and control over the height. On top of this is the strong performance handling provides a better driving experience.

Eibach 5536.712 Multi-Pro-R1 Coil-Over System
  • Monotube design with 46 mm pistons and remote reservoir for maximum track performance
  • Stainless steel strut bodies for extreme durability and corrosion protection
  • Single adjustable rebound and compression damping
  • Spring rates can be tuned with a wide range of Eibach Motorsport ERS Springs (available separately)
  • Easy ride-height and corner weight adjustability

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants strong levels of control and high quality construction with the stainless steel build.

Why I like it:

It is a high end option that provides everything you need in order to get the best performance.

Pros:

  • High end option
  • Stainless steel construction
  • Built in the USA

Specifications:

  • Up to 2.5” drop
  • 400 lb./in. front springs
  • 275 lb./in. rear springs

9. Skunk2 Racing 541-10-1100 – Best NA Miata Coilovers

Made in a monotube style, these coilovers include oversized shafts as well as pistons. They’re also forged as a single piece, making them more durable. You get 12 adjustment options for shock valving to use this vehicle wherever you want. It can run on the track or on the street as a typical vehicle.

The sleek polish and red coil creates a classy look without too much bold color design you find with similar products. These coilovers provide independent height modification rather than something based on spring preload. This keeps you more comfortable while driving.

Sale
Skunk2 Racing (541-10-1100) Pro ST Coilover for 1989-2005 Mazda Miata,regular
  • Mono-Tube Design
  • 12-Way Adjustable Dampening
  • One-Piece Forged Shock Body
  • Micro-Polished Oversized Piston Shaft
  • Independent Pre-Load/ Ride-Height Adjustments

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants bold style without the over-the-top look of some coilovers.

Why I like it:

It offers several shock valve adjustments and the ability to use the vehicle on any track or even on the common roads.

Pros:

  • Daily drivability
  • Independent height adjustment
  • Unique color and style

Specifications:

  • 8 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs
  • 12 click adjustment

10. ZYauto FK71 – Cheap Miata Coilovers

This suspension kit is the only one with an option of colors- gray, gold, red and blue. The design is for either NA or NB Miatas from 1989 to 2005, offering adjustable damper force. Everything is included, such as the front and rear coilovers.

The height is adaptable but the camber plate is not. It also has pre-load spring tension made primarily of aluminum for durability and rust-resistance.

No products found.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants to get a budget-friendly product that provides a sleek and simple look.

Why I like it:

It comes in several colors to match your style and has customizable height.

Pros:

  • Fitted rubber boots included
  • Simple installation
  • Minimal spring distortion

Specifications:

  • 24 click adjustability
  • 7 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs

11. ZYauto RO39@CO-MX5-R-LC – Best 2000 Miata Coilovers

Their red color makes them unique and bold, which proffers a sleek style for your vehicle. Even more important, this system fits Miata MX5 NA or NB vehicles made from 1989 to 2005. It has an adjustable damper force and a low price, making them a good investment for anyone who wants to improve the suspension quality of their vehicle.

The height is adaptable even though the camber plate is not, and the front and rear suspension is included. They are made with high quality aluminum to improve durability while keeping them rust-resistant.

No products found.

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants a bold style alongside a quality piece made by a company that’s well known in the industry.

Why I like it:

It offers a lot of versatility and adjustability as well as plenty of spring through the front and back.

Pros:

  • 6063 Aluminum construction
  • Minimal spring distortion
  • Easy installation

Specifications:

  • 7 kg. front springs
  • 6 kg. rear springs
  • 24 click adjustment

12. Yonaka Motorsports YMTC2006 – Best Miata Coilovers

The Yonaka Motorsports coilovers offer 28 levels of adjustable dampening. Their monotube style offers even higher-level shock absorption and provides more options for setting the height on your vehicle. The bottom is threaded, which means you don’t need to shorten the suspension travel in order to modify the height.

Add in the 1-year warranty and you have something you can count on for a while. The uppers are full aluminum and the system is designed for an intense driving style.

Yonaka Compatible with 1989-1998 Mazda Miata MX5 MX-5 Spec 2 Full Coilovers Adjustable Dampening Suspension Shocks Springs Struts
  • 28 Level Fully Adjustable Dampening
  • Fully threaded mono tube advanced shock absorber
  • Wide range of height adjustment without changing the spring compression
  • Bottom of the shock is threaded to allow height adjustments without having to shorten the suspension travel
  • 1 year warranty against factory defects

Who this is for:

Anyone who wants high adjustability and high shock absorption as well as anyone who has a more intense driving style.

Why I like it:

It can be tweaked without changing spring compression or shortening the suspension.

Pros:

  • Monotube design
  • Rubber dust shield
  • 1-year warranty

Specifications:

  • 4 kg rear springs
  • 6 kg front springs
  • 2-3” lowering

How to Pick a Miata Coilover

If you don’t like the Miata coilovers mentioned thus far, check out these features to choose something. Each of these customizes a package or setup to work for your vehicle and preferences.

Vehicle Match

The shocks and springs need to fit your vehicle. For a Miata this means not only that it suits Miata’s in general but also that it fits an NA, NB or NC model. Not every set of coilovers is suitable for every style of Miata. Do not purchase a set for NB vehicles. unless it specifies it is suitable.

Overall Weight

You need shocks that will support the weight of your vehicle. Once again, various models of Miata weigh differently. Suspension and coilover systems should support assorted weights. The bulk of the vehicle should fit in the middle. If your vehicle is heavier than what the suspension can support your risk overworking it. If it weighs less, then you paid more for something you don’t need.

Coil Spring Angle

If the spring angle is off it could affect how the wheel moves. Improper angle means the spring could bow or it could bind. Use a protractor to clarify the angle of the current suspension system in the vehicle. Measure the angle as compared to the rear axle in a rear spring or the control arm of the front spring.

Motion Ratio

Motion ratio is related to the speed at which a spring compresses when the wheel moves. Measure the pivot point of the control arm at the point that it connects to the frame to the center line of the spring. Also measure the center line of the pivot point to the same of the lower ball joint. These numbers will give you the motion ratio when you input them into an online calculator.

Spring Length

You need enough space for the suspension to actually do its job. This means at least 2 ½” of compression space, which could go up to as much as 4” or more. Measure the distance between shock mounts to determine the length. For those who don’t currently have coilovers you may need to mock up the size to get this number.

Upper Mount Style

Pillow ball mounts use spherical bearings for joints to offer precise handling but higher vibration. Rubber mounts provide moderate deflection, stiff setup but a good design for the streets. Stock or OEM mounts proffer a smooth ride but moderate to low performance.

Spring Rate

This number concerns how smooth your ride will be. Lower numbers give a soft ride but also reduce control. Higher numbers give a stiffer ride but more command while driving. The chosen number is your preference but can be adjusted as needed by approximately 2k/kg in either direction. Any more and you must re-valve the system first.

Budget Available

Coilovers are in every price range. The key is to know how much you’re willing to spend. If you have an unlimited budget, you can find coilovers upwards of $1,000 or even $2,000. Otherwise, several are under $200 as well. You get what you pay for, however, so make sure to get a better quality set. That’s crucial to get the best performance out of your vehicle.

Purpose

If you plan to drive the vehicle everyday, get a different style of coilovers than if you plan to only drive on the track. A vehicle that needs to be used for track purposes and street driving at the same time will have different requirements from a vehicle only intended for one or the other.

A low and stiff ride, like that for daily driving, is a budget style. The advanced control and handling means spending a bit more for higher quality.

FAQs

Before we close up, take a look at some of the frequently asked questions about Miata coilovers to choose the suitable product or to properly use them. Make sure to know what you’re looking for and what you’re getting.

What is the Best Suspension for NB?

The 1998 to 2005 Miata, or the Miata NB Chassis, is mediocre as far as these Miata Chassis go. The NA was made 10 years before it and the NB 10 years afterward. The best suspension depends on what you want out of the vehicle.

  • For an inexpensive or basic setup the TEIN Street Basis or Advance Z are decent options. They provide good value and basics for your money.
  • For a street warrior the Godspeed MonoSS Or even the Megan Racing EZ II are fine choices. They provide better shock oil, which keeps the unit from getting overheated.
  • For street or track drivers the BC Racing Version is a good option for the NB. This allows for better shock to make the vehicle more comfortable on the track.

What’s the Best Suspension Set-Up for Miata?

This is a tough question because everyone has an opinion. Overall, some of the suspension systems with the best reviews include:

It depends on what you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend. The above options are listed in order of lowest price to highest.

Are Used Miata Coilovers Worth It?

You can buy used coilovers, but it’s important to know what you’re looking at. First, research the brand for quality and durability. Also, make sure that it’s a legal kit and can be reasonably serviced. Next, look for:

  • Cracks
  • Broken studs
  • Deformation
  • Too much play
  • Loose seal assembly
  • Leaks
  • Tool damage
  • Bump stop included
  • Rust/pitting

Any of these signify that the coilovers are no good. If you’re not inclined to put in the work, go with brand new. Buying used requires a lot of effort.

How to Install Coilovers Miata?

The installation process for the coilovers may seem extensive, but the process is not complex. If you prefer, contact a professional who will do it for a nominal fee.

  1. Remove 2 nuts holding OEM[note]https://www.washington.edu/research/glossary/original-equipment-manufacture-oem/[/note]top mount to the shock tower. This allows the shock to be removed.
  2. Pull down on the rear hub and remove it from the wheel well.
  3. Use spring compressors to remove the top nut that holds the OEM top mount to the strut.
  4. Put the pieces back in the correct order.
  5. Install OEM top mount on racing coilover.
  6. Tighten the nut as much as possible.
  7. Slide new coilover into position. Line it up with top mount studs in the shock tower.
  8. Reinstall the nuts holding the entire mount onto the vehicle. This is accomplished inside the trunk.
  9. Reinstall the metal cover over shocks and clip the carpeting back down.
  10. Lift up hub to cover the bottom section of the shock and slide the bolt through the lower shock bushing to attach the pieces.
  11. Fasten the bolt as tightly as possible and attach the sway bar end link to the sway bar.
  12. Reinstall the wheel.
  13. Repeat on other wheels.

How to Adjust Miata Coilovers?

The process to adjust your Miata coilovers is simple, but it can be time consuming. Follow the steps below and then put the wheels on, drive the vehicle and see if it’s suitable. If it’s not then repeat the process until you get the correct height.

  1. Loosen the locking collar.
  2. Bring it down until tight and use a tape measure to grab on.
  3. Calculate the current distance.
  4. Loosen the shock out of the lower mount using a spanner but don’t loosen the spring perch.
  5. This adjusts the height.

How Long Do Coilovers Last Miata?

Coilovers should last at least 50,000 and up to 75,000 miles. This depends on how tough you drive the vehicle and what type of terrain you’re driving on as well.

Verdict

Overall, the Yonaka Motorsports Coilovers are the best option. These offer flexibility, durability and control. You get 28 levels for dampening and a monotube for shock absorption. If you’re not keen on this one, however, the others mentioned in this article are decent as well. Or choose your own by checking out the features listed above.