28 cheap Amazon swimsuits we tried (and actually loved)

This is an incredibly affordable bikini that is both trendy and flattering. While the material felt cheaper than the swimwear I usually buy, especially the padding, it was a comfortable bikini once I had it on. There is definitely a reason this is rated so highly among people with all body types. Having a pear-shaped body, I usually must buy separates because I need to order a size up on the bottoms, but a size 4-6 fit me well. Overall, this is a great option if you’re looking to save money. — Lindsey Smith, associate newsletters editor

This bikini is a great balance between style, functionality, coverage and a little sexiness. The fabric is double-layered, which means no sheerness and some added support, which I love. The one-shoulder cut is super cute, along with the side tie detail. The bottoms have a flattering high-waist cut but are a little cheeky, too. One thing to note — the bottoms hit below the belly button (which is accurate to the product pictures), so they won’t fit exactly at the waistline, if that’s what you’re looking for. Also, the top runs a little tight, so those with a larger cup size may want to size up. — Sophie Shaw, associate fashion and beauty editor

I ordered the Pink Queen Bikini Set and absolutely loved it. The swimsuit looks just like the photos online and the material was thick, quality and strong-feeling. With such a light-colored top, I worry that swimsuits will appear see-through against my skin tone, but this one had bra padding and was layered and thick enough so that even the cream color did not show my skin. I found the bottoms to be true to size based on the sizing chart but did find that the bandeau top was a little bigger than my frame. However, the adjustable straps came in handy and were so convenient when I wanted to make the top fit better or just take the straps off completely.— Madison Yerke, digital content strategist

I can't say enough good things about this suit, which I've had for over a year now. Finding a bikini that properly fits my larger chest (I’m a 32H) is one of my life’s biggest struggles, but because of the billowing fabric, the top miraculously covers and fits everything. I got a medium in both the top and bottom and I never once worry about popping out. It's completely family-friendly. I'm at the point now that when I want a truly comfortable bikini, this is the one I always reach for. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

There’s something so simplistic about a bandeau bikini. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option you can get shipped to you quickly, I’d definitely recommend this one. The top feels supportive, a necessity for a strapless bikini, and the bottoms are high-waisted and aren’t super cheeky — although they do sit below the belly button. My one con is that I ordered the navy blue color, which is more of a deep teal shade in person, but I’d still reach for this on my next pool day. — Kiana Murden, former associate lifestyle editor

I’d definitely say this suit was exactly what I expected. I love the army green color, and the suit feels pretty secure, which is huge. The bottoms are pretty high-waisted, so it gives a great amount of coverage if you’re looking for a bikini that doesn’t show too much. — Kiana Murden, former associate lifestyle editor

Two words: tummy control! The ruching in the center of this Cupshe one-piece is convenient for people like me who, on some beach days, simply just want a little extra compression in that area. Overall, the suit is flattering and the quality is so good, that I truly can’t even believe it’s only $31. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

This is one of those suits where if your body isn’t the same size on both top and bottom you could run into some issues. Though the bottoms fit perfectly on me, the medium-sized top didn’t fit my chest that well and left me spilling out more than I like. However, if you aren’t particularly busty I’m sure it’d be fine actually, given that the halter is completely adjustable and there are two straps in the back, one of which you tie yourself, which makes it feel extra secure. It’s actually a shame this one didn’t fit me, since the quality itself seemed great. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

I’ve heard great things about Cupshe and after trying one of their suits for myself, I can confirm that the rumors are true! The material is so thick and soft and the padding and adjustable straps in the back really cinch and flatter you in all of the right places. I like it so much that I picked it up in a couple other colors! — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

This year, I’m starting to slowly phase out my bikinis, and finding an age-appropriate one-piece that doesn’t make me look like I’m stuffed in a sausage casing has been tough. I especially like this Rxrxcoco bathing suit because its ruching falls in the perfect places to better enhance my torso (and hide that unsightly flat tire that may be visible when I’m sitting down). I originally ordered a large because my bra size is a 34 DD, but it was huge on me, so I had to get the medium instead, which ended up being a perfect fit. All in all, for under $50 and with all the different color choices, I would recommend this bathing suit for all kinds of body types. — Tobey Grumet Segal, health, fitness and food editor

Swimsuits with skirts can either look matronly or costume-y, and I’m elated to say that this one is neither. With horizontal stripes across the bust and a black skirt with matching shorts underneath, this is one of those swimsuits that you can feel completely comfortable going to the beach in and then maybe even a sandwich shop or grocery store afterward (well, if you’re already in Florida like I was). The silhouette hugs your curves and covers your hips and is an excellent choice if you’re looking to be more modest for any reason at all. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

I feel super snatched in this one-piece that sucks you in, accentuates your curves and feels really secure. I found that the halter neck paired with the square neckline is incredibly flattering and gives this suit a feminine touch as compared to other one-piece options on the market. There are so many colors to choose from too. — Kiana Murden, former associate lifestyle editor

I’ve seen this suit all over my Instagram and I know why. At under $40, this suit is a steal. It looks similar in design to bathing suits that cost over $100. It fits true to size and was comfortable. The back has as much coverage as the front of the suit, so you can feel secure and comfortable all day. This is a plus for larger-chested people! I ordered the orange/white version, and luckily the white top wasn’t see-through at all even when it got wet. Two of my friends already ordered this suit after spending a day with me wearing it! — Rosanne Salvatore, former deputy editor

This suit is honestly exactly as advertised. It’s definitely a more risqué cut for a swimsuit in that it’s backless, shows sideboob and is high-cut on your legs. It runs true to size and the large fit me well, was comfortable and even had enough coverage for larger boobs. The suit held up in the wash. If you’re looking for a modern yet classic one-piece suit, this is the one for you. — Rosanne Salvatore, former deputy editor

A one-piece that’s deceptively sexy? Count us in. With multi-band accents across the shoulders and waist, with mesh running between each of the bands, this was one of the most comfortable swimsuits I tried. It also ran a bit big, so be sure to make sure you’re sizing one size down on this one. Overall it made me feel like a Bond girl, which is something I never thought an affordable swimsuit could do. — Rachel Lubitz, former lifestyle editor

Speaking of Bond girl, this one gives you that bombshell feel too. Its bustline was a little lower than expected on me, so I had some cleavage showing, but once I properly adjusted the bands I was much more comfortable. The bottoms were pleasantly not-too-high-cut too, so I didn’t feel too va-va-voom for the neighborhood pool. Overall it gave me a lovely shape and was so incredibly comfortable to wear for a few hours, plus the sweet tropical print was a nice touch. The quality stood up after washing as well! — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

The Amazon Essentials swim trunk is good for the price, but just OK in the grand scheme of men’s swimwear. The 7-inch inseam is the perfect compromise for those who don’t love the overly long and baggy look for a suit, but don’t want to show too much above the knee. But that’s the high point. While the material is light and comfortable against the skin, it definitely feels cheaper compared to suits that are a hair more expensive — so this is more suited for those looking for a last-minute, I’m-not-going-to-wear-this-much option, as quality seems to be a bit lacking. And the print blends too much into the background, more so in person than it appears to on Amazon. — Scott Simone, former deputy editor

These shorts are a good, quick option if you need a pair to throw on every once in a while. I love the pockets and they look decent, however, the material isn't stretchy and the cut is a little more restrictive than I'd like at the thighs. The inner mesh isn't as uncomfortable as some trunks I've worn, but I wouldn't want to sit in a kayak in these for more than a few hours. Overall, these are a good pair of shorts if you need a swimsuit in a pinch, just don't expect them to last season after season. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoor, sustainability and pets editor

I love swim trunks that I can also wear as regular shorts, and this understated Kanu Surf pair absolutely checks that box. The stretchy polyester material felt immediately comfortable and just snug enough to fit securely, and the cargo pockets feature plenty of room for my everyday carry. — Mike Andronico, senior tech writer

I liked the design of this pair of Maamgic trunks. I typically only wear very simple or solid-color bottoms, but this pair felt like just the right amount of fun. The netting and fit were on the looser side, but they sat a little lower on my thigh than I usually wear. Believe it or not, the biggest downfall of this suit was the side pockets: I could barely fit my hands into them, much less a phone. — Daniel Rathburn, associate programming editor

This Hodo swimsuit is so comfy, and I love the colors. The interior lining is nonabrasive, making it great for long periods of swimming, and the length is perfect for someone who prefers longer trunks (see: me). I can't wait to wear these through all of spring and summer. — Daniel Toy, chief copy editor

I often feel like my swimsuits never fit me right, with too much room in the thigh and not enough room in the netting, but these gave just enough room in both departments. I ordered the green with a black waistband, which gave the shorts a sporty look and accentuated the color. Plus, the zippered pockets came in handy. I wore them to a spa recently and was assured my locker key wasn’t going to sink to the bottom of the hot tub. — Daniel Rathburn, associate programming editor

These trunks come in more than 40 colors, some less attractive than others. I went over the top with the Fiji Coral design, but besides their bold look, this swimsuit is a solid choice for your next trip to the beach. Featuring two large pockets, a cargo pocket on the right leg and an additional tiny internal pocket (really only big enough for one key), there are plenty of options to keep your essentials. The fit was perfect around the waist, but the legs are a little long for my taste with an 11-inch inseam. The internal mesh lining also felt a little tighter than I would’ve liked, but it definitely wasn’t a deal breaker. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoor, sustainability and pets editor

A little bit shorter than the Kanu trunks, these 9-inch shorts from Amazon Essentials were also super stylish and fit great. This pair also comes with two side pockets, a tiny key pocket and a back pocket. The texture of the suit itself feels a bit more matte than the traditional swimsuit material, making them seem a bit more like board shorts. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoor, sustainability and pets editor

These were definitely my favorite pair of trunks, featuring a stylish 7-inch inseam. They’ve got three pockets (two on the side, one on the back) and have a fine mesh lining, which made them feel much more comfortable than the other two swimsuits I tried. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoor, sustainability and pets editor