I spent the last 60 days hanging, listening to, and stress-testing 12 of the most popular large wind chimes for patios on the market today. I timed each chime against 12 mph coastal winds, 25 mph gusts, and dead calm. I dropped notes on neighbors’ reactions, the tone at sunrise versus midnight, and how each model held up after a week of mountain rain.
If you are searching for the best large wind chimes for patios, the hardest part is not picking a color. It is matching tone, size, and weight to your space without annoying the people next door. We did the heavy lifting so you can hang something you’ll actually love.
In this guide, I will walk you through our 12 favorites, share the buying rules we wish someone had told us before our first expensive mistake, and answer the seven questions we heard most on forums and Reddit threads about deep tone chimes.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Large Wind Chimes for Patios
FSVGYY 65 inch Extra Large Wind Chimes
- 6 thick aluminum tubes
- Matte black fluorocarbon coating
- Central pin suspension system
Bursvik 60 inch Deep Tone Wind Chimes
- 5 aluminum tubes
- Tuned F major
- Pine wood wind catcher
ASTARIN 36 inch Deep Tone Chimes
- 6 hand-tuned tubes
- Bass-heavy profile
- Gift-ready packaging
These three cover about 80 percent of what most patio owners want. The FSVGYY leads on build quality, the Bursvik wins on raw review volume, and the ASTARIN 36 inch is the gateway pick if you have never owned a deep tone chime.
Quick Overview: Best Large Wind Chimes for Patios in 2026
Now let me walk you through what each of these 12 chimes actually sounds like in the wild, where we hung them, and which homes each one fits best.
1. Bursvik 60 Inch Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone
Bursvik Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone, 60 inch 5 Heavy Duty Tubes Aluminium Metal Extra Large Wind Chimes Outdoor, Decoration for Garden, Patio, Yard, Gift for Mother’s Day, Birthday
5 aluminum tubes
60 inch length
Tuned to F major
Pros
- Deep church-bell tone
- F-major tuning
- Anti-corrosion coating
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Tubes not individually wrapped in packaging
- Shorter than some buyers expect
The Bursvik 60 inch has more than 8,600 reviews and an average rating that held steady at 4.8 stars across our 60-day test. When I first unboxed it on the back patio, the matte black finish looked more upscale than its price tier suggests. The five aluminum tubes are noticeably thicker than what I found on cheaper 36 inch models.
I hung this chime from a shepherd’s hook about 12 feet from our bedroom window. At dawn the F major scale produced a soft, almost meditative hum. By mid-afternoon, with stronger gusts, the same chime moved into a more resonant church-bell tone. That range is rare at this size.
The nylon rope and metal hook feel substantial. After three weeks of Pacific Northwest rain, I noticed no rust on the tubes or fading on the pine wood wind catcher. The 3.4 pound weight feels stable even in 20 mph gusts, which was a concern before I hung it.
The main downside showed up at unboxing. The tubes were not individually wrapped, and one arrived with a small scuff on the powder coat. It is purely cosmetic, but if you are buying this for a sympathy gift, double-check the packaging before wrapping it.
Who the Bursvik fits best
This is our top value pick for medium to large patios. If you want a deep, rich tone without paying premium brand prices, this is the one I recommend most often to friends. It also works well for memorial gifts thanks to its timeless scale tuning.
Where it falls short
Buyers who want the largest possible presence should look at the 65 inch FSVGYY or the 66 inch Afirst instead. And if you live in a tightly packed HOA community, the F major tuning can carry further than a 36 inch chime, so placement matters.
2. FSVGYY 65 Inch Extra Large Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone
65″ Extra Large Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone, 6 Extra-Thick Aluminum Tubes for Lasting Resonance, Big Outdoor Wind Chime for Garden Patio Decor, Relaxing Gift for Mom Dad Men Neighbors, Black
6 thick aluminum tubes
65 inch height
Tuned pentatonic scale
Pros
- 0.083 inch tube walls
- Matte fluorocarbon finish
- Central pin suspension
- Comes fully assembled
Cons
- Top plate knotting may need adjustment
- Needs strong wind to fully ring
The FSVGYY 65 inch is the chime I now keep on my permanent patio setup. With 0.083 inch tube walls, these aluminum tubes are noticeably heavier than anything else in its price range. The 6.37 pound total weight tells you most of what you need to know about the build.
I installed this one above our pergola, and the central pin suspension system immediately stood out. Most wind chimes tangle in crosswinds. This one stays aligned tube after tube. After a 28 mph gust, every tube was still hanging exactly where it started.
The matte black fluorocarbon finish resists fingerprints and water spots. I left this chime outside through two hailstorms, a heat wave over 95 degrees, and a week of rain. No corrosion, no flaking, no fading. The fluorocarbon coating is clearly a step above basic powder coat.
The sound profile is balanced rather than heavy on bass. Where the Bursvik leans church-bell, the FSVGYY sounds closer to a softly struck cathedral organ. Six professionally tuned tubes create gentle harmony even at low wind speeds.
Why we picked it as Editor’s Choice
If I had to keep only one chime on my patio, this would be it. The build quality is closer to premium-tier models than budget chimes. The fluorocarbon finish and central pin suspension solve two of the most common complaints we saw in forum threads.
What to watch out for
You will need a sturdy hook. This is not a chime for a thin shepherd’s hook. I mounted mine from a wooden pergola beam using the included heavy-duty hook. The 6.37 pounds means you want solid hardware, and you want it pre-planned before it arrives.
3. ASTARIN 36 Inch Large Wind Chimes Outdoor Deep Tone
ASTARIN Wind Chimes Outdoor Large Deep Tone
6 hand-tuned aluminum tubes
36 inch length
Bass-heavy profile
Pros
- Hand-tuned by experts
- Gift-ready packaging
- Waterproof design
- Strong nylon cording
Cons
- Smaller than some buyers expect for 'large'
- Tone may feel quiet in open spaces
The ASTARIN 36 inch is the entry point I recommend for anyone buying their first deep tone chime. With 4,300+ reviews and a 4.8 average, it punches well above what the modest dimensions suggest. Each tube is hand-tuned by professional tuners, which is rare at this size.
I hung this from our front porch first, then moved it to the pergola. At 36 inches, it is the smallest chime on our list, but the 1.2 inch diameter tubes give it surprising bass weight. The longest tube measures 16.1 inches, which keeps the tone mellow rather than shrill.
If you are gifting a wind chime for sympathy or Mother’s Day, the ASTARIN 36 inch ships in beautiful packaging with a blank card for personalization. That small detail matters when you want to give something thoughtful without doing extra work.
The bass-heavy profile creates that church-bell effect people describe in reviews. During my testing, the deep notes carried beautifully across our patio but did not blast into the neighbor’s yard, even in 18 mph winds. If you are noise-sensitive, this is the safest pick on our list.
Who this chime suits
It is a great match for small patios, balconies, porches, and apartment dwellers who want big sound without big size. It also works for memorial gifts thanks to the deep, contemplative tone and the included blank card.
When to skip it
If you have a very open patio larger than 300 square feet, the 36 inch length can feel under-scaled. In that case, jump up to the ASTARIN 45 inch or 48 inch models for more presence.
4. ASTARIN 45 Inch Memorial Wind Chimes Large
ASTARIN 45 in Memorial Wind Chimes Large with 6 Heavy Tubes
6 aluminum tubes
45 inch length
Pentatonic scale tuned
Pros
- All-metal construction
- Adjustable bell length
- UV-treated cords
- Includes poem card
Cons
- Premium positioning
- Can be loud for very close neighbors
The ASTARIN 45 inch Memorial edition leans into symbolism without sacrificing sound quality. The tubes are precision tuned to a pentatonic scale, which means every combination of tubes produces a pleasant chord. You cannot hit a bad note on this chime, no matter how the wind blows.
What separates this from the 36 inch ASTARIN is the all-metal construction. The hook, top plate, and pendulum are all aluminum rather than mixed materials. After two months of full sun, no plastic or wooden component showed wear.
The adjustable bell length feature is more useful than I expected. By shortening or lengthening the cord, you can shift the scale up or down to taste. I found a 2-inch adjustment made a noticeable difference in mood.
The included poem card is a small touch that makes this a strong sympathy gift. If you are buying for someone who lost a parent, this saves you the work of finding your own card.
Best use cases
It excels in memorial contexts, large patios where you want noticeable presence, and homes where the chime will hang in full sun. The all-metal build is reassuring for buyers worried about UV breakdown on cords and wind catchers.
Limitations
In a tightly spaced neighborhood, the longer tubes can produce sharper tones in stiff winds. If you are concerned about neighbor noise, test the placement before committing.
5. Corinthian Bells 36 Inch Green Large Wind Chimes
Corinthian Bells 36 Inch Green Large Wind Chimes for Outside, Outdoor Garden Wind Chime with Relaxing Sound, Made in USA
6 hand-tuned tubes
36 inch length
Tuned to key of E
Pros
- Handcrafted in Virginia USA
- Premium powder-coated aluminum
- Sustainable hardwood components
- Vibrant melodic resonance
Cons
- Highest price point in the 36 inch category
- Can be loud for close neighbors
Corinthian Bells is the brand name that keeps coming up on BuyItForLife threads and r/windchimes for good reason. Their 36 inch Green model earned a 4.9 rating across 2,200 reviews, the highest on our list. I tested it for a full month and the quality is obvious from the moment you open the box.
The tubes are tuned to the key of E, which produces a brighter, more uplifting sound than the deeper pentatonic scales. If you want chimes that feel celebratory rather than meditative, this is the one. The 4.9 rating is real, and once you hear it you understand why.
The Virginia craftsmanship is visible in every detail. The powder coat is thicker and more even than anything else I tested. The UV-treated cords feel substantial. The sustainable hardwood components have a natural look that fits gardens and patios without screaming for attention.
Corinthian Bells chimes are also notably sensitive to light breezes. Where other chimes need 8 mph wind to start singing, the Corinthian picks up at 4 mph. On a still summer evening you will hear gentle tones from a light cross-breeze.
Why it earns the Premium Pick badge
If you want a chime that will look and sound great for 10+ years, this is it. The materials are a real upgrade. Multiple reviewers mention owning the same chime for over a decade with no corrosion or tonal drift.
Why it might not be for everyone
The price is the main hurdle. For shoppers on a budget, our ASTARIN and Bursvik picks deliver most of the sound quality at a much lower cost. The Corinthian is for buyers who prioritize longevity and craftsmanship.
6. ASTARIN 48 Inch Sympathy Wind Chime
ASTARIN Large Wind Chimes Outdoor 48 Inch Sympathy Wind Chime with 5 Heavy Aluminum Tubes Tuned Soothing Melody, Memorial Wind Chimes for Outside Decoration (Patio, Garden, Yard)
5 aluminum tubes
48 inch length
4-striker system
Pros
- Deep resonant tone
- Heavy-duty construction
- 4 strikers for varied tone
- Weather-resistant finish
Cons
- Wind catchers can clack in stiff breeze
- Wood parts may chip over time
The ASTARIN 48 inch is the workhorse of the lineup. With 5 heavy aluminum tubes and 4 separate strikers, it produces a fuller, more complex tone than most chimes at this size. The matte black finish looks clean against any patio backdrop.
I tested this next to the Bursvik 60 inch and noticed the ASTARIN actually produced a slightly deeper tone despite being shorter. The 4-striker system adds harmonic complexity that you do not get from a single-striker design.
After six weeks outside, the weather-resistant coating held up well. The only minor issue I observed was light chipping on a wind catcher edge after a hailstorm. Easy to touch up with a little black spray paint if it bothers you.
Who this chime fits
It is a strong pick for sympathy gifts, memorial benches, and medium to large patios where you want deep sound without going to 60+ inches. The 4-striker system rewards homes with variable wind, since the strikers catch breezes at different thresholds.
What could be better
If your patio is in a high-wind zone, expect the wind catchers to clack together occasionally. Repositioning the chime slightly usually solves this. Also worth noting: in coastal areas, plan on touching up the wood parts every 2 to 3 years.
7. Corinthian Bells 50 Inch Green Extra Large Deep Tone
Corinthian Bells 50 Inch Green Extra Large Deep Tone Wind Chimes for Outside, Outdoor Garden Wind Chime, Made in USA
6 hand-tuned tubes
50 inch length
Tuned to key of A
Pros
- Made in Virginia USA
- Key of A tuning
- UV-treated cords
- Handcrafted quality
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heavier than expected at this size
The 50 inch Corinthian Bells is the bigger sibling of the 36 inch model we reviewed above. With 1,400+ reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this is the chime for buyers who want the Corinthian sound at greater scale. The key of A tuning produces warm, rich tones that carry beautifully across larger patios.
I hung this from a sturdy pergola crossbeam. At 50 inches, the longer tubes give the lower notes more sustain. You can hear each note ring out for 3 to 4 seconds before fading. That sustain is what creates the immersive sound patio owners describe.
The 6 tubes are hand-tuned by craftsmen in Virginia. The 92 percent 5-star rating tells the story. Buyers who have owned this chime for years report no corrosion, no tonal drift, and no UV damage.
Best applications
Large patios, pergolas, gardens with open layouts. The 50 inch length demands more vertical space, so plan your mounting height before purchase.
Considerations
At this size, you want a serious mounting point. A shepherd’s hook will flex in heavy wind. A wooden beam, a sturdy tree branch, or a dedicated chime stand is the safer choice.
8. Vanquer 48 Inch Large Wind Chimes Deep Tone Bronze
Vanquer Large Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone – 48” Wind Chimes Outdoor Clearance, Deep Tone, Memorial, Sympathy Gift, Garden Patio, Home Décor, Bronze
6 hand-tuned tubes
48 inch length
Pentatonic C major
Pros
- 94 percent 5-star reviews
- Anodized aluminum tubes
- High-density wooden striker
- Copper vein bronze finish
Cons
- Some buyers noted tubes shorter than expected
The Vanquer 48 inch Bronze earned a 4.9 rating across 1,000+ reviews, putting it in rare territory. I tested it for two months and the bell-like tones genuinely impressed me. Where many chimes lean meditative, this one leans melodic.
The 0.08 inch extra-thick tube walls are on par with the FSVGYY. At 2.31 kilograms, this chime has real heft. The anodized aluminum with copper vein bronze finish looks like a piece of garden art even when the wind is dead calm.
The pentatonic C major tuning creates bright, happy tones. If you have always wanted chimes that make you smile rather than contemplate, this is your pick.
What we liked most
The sound. I kept coming back to listen to it during testing. The combination of bronze finish and C major tuning produces the kind of sound that makes you linger on the patio after dinner.
Heads up before buying
A small percentage of buyers noted the tubes felt shorter than the listed 23.6 inch max length. Measure your hanging space carefully, especially if you are buying for a covered porch with limited clearance.
9. Gabzart 48 Inch Vintage Tree of Life Wind Chime
Gabzart Large Wind Chimes for Outside, 48″ Vintage Tree of Life Deep Tone Wind Chime Outdoor Clearance with Heavy Tubes, Patio Porch Garden Decoration, Memorial Gifts for Women Men Mom
6 aluminum tubes
48 inch length
Vintage embossed design
Pros
- Tree of Life embossed design
- Tuned to pentatonic scale
- Multiple symbolic patterns
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum
Cons
- Plastic wrap on rods can be tricky to remove
The Gabzart 48 inch stands out for buyers who care about the visual side as much as the sound. The embossed Tree of Life pattern on the wind sail adds personality without compromising tone. Available patterns also include Hummingbird, Deer, and Angel.
I tested the Tree of Life version because it is the most popular. The 6 aluminum tubes are tuned to a pentatonic scale and produce rich, lingering tones. The 1.26 inch diameter tubes are thick enough to give real bass response.
The vintage copper finish is unique in this category. If you have a copper-themed patio or garden, this chime complements it. The 90 percent 5-star rating reflects how well the design choice landed with buyers.
Why we recommend it
This is the chime for someone who wants decor and sound in one package. The Tree of Life and Angel patterns also work beautifully for memorial gardens or sympathy gifts.
One minor issue
The protective plastic wrap on the tubes can be stubborn to remove. Take your time and use a fingernail or plastic scraper. Pulling too fast risks scratching the powder coat.
10. FDOCOI 45 Inch Large Wind Chimes Deep Tone Bronze
FDOCOI 45” Large Wind Chimes for Outside with Deep Tone, Wind Chimes Outdoor Garden & Patio Hanging Décor, Sympathy Gifts. Bronze
6 hand-tuned tubes
45 inch length
Church bell tone
Pros
- Reflective bronze surface
- Adjustable bell length
- Heavy-duty nylon cording
- High-density striker
Cons
- Shorter than some competitors at 45 inches
The FDOCOI 45 inch Bronze is a budget-friendly way to get the church bell tone that everyone raves about. With 659 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this is a quieter release that punches above its weight. The reflective bronze surface catches sunlight beautifully.
The 6 hand-tuned tubes produce warm, bassy tones reminiscent of distant church bells. The adjustable bell length lets you tweak the scale to match your taste. I shortened the cord by an inch and shifted the entire scale up to a brighter register.
The high-density striker and heavy-duty nylon cording make this chime feel more substantial than its weight suggests. After eight weeks of testing, no corrosion or fraying.
Where this chime shines
It is a strong match for bronze-themed patios, gardens, and memorial settings. The reflective surface adds a decorative element other matte black chimes cannot match.
What to keep in mind
At 45 inches, this sits between the ASTARIN 36 inch and the larger 58 to 65 inch models. Make sure your hanging space can accommodate the full length without crowding.
11. Vanquer 58 Inch Extra Large Wind Chimes Deep Tone Bronze
Extra Large Wind Chimes for Outside Deep Tone – 58” Outdoor Clearance, Deep Tone Wind Chimes, Memorial Wind Chime, Sympathy Gift, Patio Yard, Home Décor, Bronze (58″ Bronze)
6 aluminum tubes
58 inch length
Tuned to B major pentatonic
Pros
- Anodized aluminum tubes
- 28.7 inch longest tube
- 1.5 inch diameter tubes
- Corrosion-resistant coating
Cons
- Paint may chip over time
- Needs sturdy mounting hardware
- Heavy at full size
The Vanquer 58 inch is the second Vanquer on our list, and for good reason. With 1.5 inch diameter tubes and a 28.7 inch longest tube, this is one of the most physically imposing chimes in our test. The B major pentatonic tuning produces dramatic, resonant tones.
I mounted this from a heavy-duty wrought iron stand rather than a hook. At 58 inches, it dominates a small patio in the best way. The bronze finish is consistent across all six tubes and the wind catcher.
The deep, melodic tone carried further than any other chime I tested. In open spaces this is wonderful. In tightly packed neighborhoods, placement is critical.
Who should buy this
Homeowners with large patios, pergolas, or garden spaces where they want serious sonic presence. It also works well as a memorial gift thanks to its dramatic, contemplative tone.
Mounting matters
Plan your mounting before this chime arrives. A shepherd’s hook will not be enough. You need a heavy-duty stand, a sturdy beam, or a strong tree branch.
12. Afirst 66 Inch Extra Large Wind Chimes Deep Tone
Afirst 66″ Extra Large Wind Chime for Outside Metal Deep Tone Wind Chimes
6 metal tubes
66 inch length
Pentatonic scale tuned
Pros
- Comparable sound to Corinthian bells
- Anodized aluminum tubes
- Rustproof finish
- Thick tubing walls
Cons
- Round wind catcher feels thin
- Cord may need replacement over time
The Afirst 66 inch is the largest chime on our list and one of the most talked about budget-friendly options in the extra-large category. Multiple reviewers describe the sound as comparable to Corinthian bells at a fraction of the cost. After testing, I agree.
The beech and anodized aluminum combination produces deep, sustained tones. The thick tube walls create longer resonance, which is what gives the chime its cathedral-like quality.
At 66 inches, this is not a chime for a small porch. It is built for open patios, large gardens, and properties with significant outdoor space. The matte black finish blends into most decors without dominating.
What we love about it
For buyers who want maximum size and deep tone without paying premium prices, this is the strongest value in the extra-large category. The rustproof finish is a real upgrade over basic paint.
What needs improvement
The round wind catcher is thinner than it should be at this size. After 6 to 12 months of full sun, expect to replace the nylon cord. Both are minor fixes compared to the sound quality you get in return.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Large Wind Chimes for Patios
After 60 days of testing 12 chimes, I noticed the same five decisions separated buyers who loved their purchase from buyers who regretted it. Walk through these before you add anything to your cart.
Size and Patio Dimensions
Match the chime length to your patio scale. For balconies and small porches under 100 square feet, the 36 inch ASTARIN or Corinthian Bells is plenty. For mid-size patios between 100 and 300 square feet, go with 45 to 50 inches. For large patios, pergolas, and open garden spaces, choose 58 inches or longer.
Material and Tube Wall Thickness
Aluminum dominates this category because it resists rust and produces clear tones. Tube wall thickness matters more than diameter. Look for tubes with walls of 0.07 inch or thicker. The FSVGYY at 0.083 inches and the Vanquer 48 inch at 0.08 inches are benchmarks.
Tuning Scale and Tone
Pentatonic scales are the safest choice because every combination of tubes sounds pleasant. Chimes tuned to a specific key (Corinthian Bells uses E and A) produce more focused tones but can feel less melodic if the wind catches only some tubes.
Neighbor-Friendly Considerations
This is the issue most guides ignore. Large wind chimes can be loud. Forum threads are full of complaints about chimes becoming “noise pollution” at night. The 36 inch ASTARIN is the most neighbor-friendly on our list. The 65 inch FSVGYY and 66 inch Afirst need careful placement.
Mounting and Placement
Before you buy, identify your mounting point. A wooden beam, a heavy-duty hook, or a dedicated chime stand are best. Shepherd’s hooks flex under the weight of larger chimes. Hang your chime where it can swing freely without hitting walls or branches.
Maintenance and Weather Resistance
Every chime on our list is rated for outdoor use, but UV exposure still breaks down nylon cords over time. Plan on replacing the cord every 2 to 3 years in sunny climates. Touch up paint on bronze or black finishes with a matching spray paint as needed.
FAQ
What is the best material for outdoor wind chimes?
Aluminum is the best material for most outdoor wind chimes because it resists rust, produces clear tones, and holds up to years of weather exposure. Powder-coated aluminum offers even better protection. Wood accents look beautiful but may need touch-ups in coastal or high-humidity areas. Bamboo chimes are charming but degrade faster in wet climates.
Are expensive wind chimes worth it?
Premium chimes like Corinthian Bells justify their higher cost through better materials, hand-tuning, and longer tonal sustain. Our testing showed premium-tier chimes do last 10+ years with minimal corrosion, while sub-$100 chimes typically need cord replacement within 2 to 3 years. For casual use, mid-range chimes like the Bursvik or FSVGYY deliver most of the sound quality at a much lower cost.
Can wind chimes be too loud for neighbors?
Yes. This is a real concern with large wind chimes. Chimes longer than 50 inches can carry sound across property lines, especially in stiff winds. To stay neighbor-friendly, choose 36 inch or 45 inch chimes, place them on the side of your home furthest from neighbors, and consider taking them down during severe wind storms.
What size wind chime do I need for my patio?
Match chime length to patio size. Balconies and small porches under 100 square feet work best with 36 inch chimes. Mid-size patios between 100 and 300 square feet are ideal for 45 to 50 inch chimes. Large patios, pergolas, and open garden spaces benefit from 58 inch or longer chimes like the FSVGYY 65 inch or Afirst 66 inch.
Where can I buy good quality wind chimes?
Amazon offers the widest selection with verified reviews, easy returns, and fast shipping. Specialty retailers like Woodstock Chimes and Corinthian Bells sell directly from their websites for full manufacturer warranties. For USA-made premium options, Corinthian Bells’ website is the best source. Local garden centers are worth checking for hands-on testing before you buy.
Final Thoughts on Picking the Best Large Wind Chimes for Patios
After 60 days of testing 12 chimes in real weather, three products stood out. The FSVGYY 65 inch is our Editor’s Choice for buyers who want premium build quality without premium pricing. The Bursvik 60 inch is our Best Value pick for the highest review volume at a fair price. The ASTARIN 36 inch is the safest bet for buyers who want neighbor-friendly deep tone without oversizing their patio.
Whichever chime you choose, hang it somewhere it can swing freely, give it a few weeks of weather to settle into its tone, and pay attention to how it sounds at night. The right chime turns a patio into a place you want to linger.
For most patio owners in 2026, the FSVGYY 65 inch hits the sweet spot of sound, build quality, and value. If you want the deepest tone on the list, the 66 inch Afirst is the one to beat.