Most reliable condoms

Our latest tests of 20 latex condoms found that all of them met our minimum criteria for reliability, but some proved stronger than others.

We inflate condoms until they burst and record the volume and pressure. To assess reliability, we look at the number of samples that meet minimum criteria for volume and pressure.

For our more stringent strength measure, we count the number of samples that hold 25 liters or more. That's when more differences occur. One Durex, two Lifestyles, and four Trojan models had no failures.

We also use submersion tests to look for indications of leaks in the condom or its packaging. One had many more samples with rough or partially damaged rings at the opening, and one product exceeded our criterion for the number of samples with holes.

Bottom line

You will get the most protection with any condom by using it properly.