Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid (antigen) tests for COVID-19 both involve taking a swab. Results for a PCR test take longer, as it needs to go to a laboratory. It is more costly but tends to ...

Medically reviewed by Jordana Haber Hazan, MD Key Takeaways PCR tests are very accurate and can find the virus even in people without symptoms.Rapid tests can be done at home and show results in ...

Ducharme is a contributor to TIME. Ducharme is a contributor to TIME. If you had COVID-19 symptoms in 2020, you probably would have masked up and braved a visit to a laboratory, doctor’s office, or ...

FDA-authorized test for home use is the most affordable PCR-quality rapid test on the market and at least 50 times more sensitive than leading rapid antigen tests Detect’s FDA authorized PCR-quality ...

Molecular tests are far superior to rapid antigen tests—and now you can get them for home use. Amanda Blum is a freelancer who writes about smart home technology, gardening, and food preservation.

Researchers often call the polymerase chain reaction test – known as the PCR test – "the gold standard" for detecting the COVID-19 virus. The test is considered highly reliable and effective, and it ...