JetBlack VICTORY Smart Trainer

The value benchmark among full-power direct-drive trainers. It handles 1,800 watts and 16 percent grades, adds Wi-Fi and a 10 Hz race mode, and launched at $399 with a Zwift Cog and Click in place of a cassette, so most 8- to 12-speed bikes can ride it without buying one. A review measured about 65 to 66 dB at 150 watts, with little extra noise when sprinting. Two quirks to know: ERG smoothing is on by default and cannot be turned off, which matters if you analyze raw power, and the legs do not fold, so it needs more storage room. Power can also read low for the first few minutes of a ride.