If you’ve ever put out a bird feeder only to find it turned into a squirrel gym or an empty shell within hours, you’re not alone. Choosing the right bird feeder makes all the difference—not just for your feathered visitors, but for your sanity too.
We tested and reviewed dozens of feeders to bring you this list of the top-rated bird feeders of 2025. Whether you’re trying to attract finches, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, or your nosy neighbor’s envy, these picks have you covered.
🥇 1. Droll Yankees Flipper – Best Squirrel-Proof Feeder
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Type: Tube Feeder
Capacity: 5 lbs
Best For: Cardinals, finches, sparrows—and keeping squirrels humbled.
Why It’s Great:
This feeder doesn’t just claim to be squirrel-proof—it spins when a squirrel lands, sending them on a gentle ride of shame. Birds love it. Squirrels? Not so much. Durable metal parts, a large capacity, and sleek design make this one of the best overall tube feeders on the market.
HelpfulGuy Tip:
Mount it far from jumpable surfaces. Squirrels are cleverer than your brother-in-law on trivia night.
🥈 2. Brome Squirrel Buster Plus – Best All-Around Feeder
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Type: Tube Feeder
Capacity: 3.4 lbs
Best For: Chickadees, nuthatches, titmice
Why It’s Great:
Patented technology lets birds feed while blocking out heavier visitors (read: squirrels and chunkier birds). It’s easy to clean, chew-proof, and backed by a lifetime warranty.
HelpfulGuy Tip:
Brome also has a customer support line run by actual humans. A rarity, like spotting a painted bunting in the suburbs.
🥉 3. Nature’s Way Cedar Platform Feeder – Best Platform Feeder
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Type: Platform/Tray
Material: Cedar wood
Best For: Ground feeders like juncos, mourning doves, and blue jays
Why It’s Great:
Natural cedar is rot-resistant and looks great on any deck or post. The open platform attracts a wide range of birds and makes for amazing bird-watching—but it’s not squirrel-proof.
HelpfulGuy Tip:
Sprinkle some cayenne pepper in the seed mix—birds can’t taste it, but squirrels sure can.
💧 4. Aspects HummZinger HighView – Best Hummingbird Feeder
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Type: Nectar Feeder
Capacity: 12 oz
Best For: Hummingbirds
Why It’s Great:
Leak-proof, dishwasher-safe, and designed for easy cleaning—three things every hummingbird feeder should be but rarely are. The built-in ant moat is a game changer.
HelpfulGuy Tip:
Avoid red dye in your nectar—your birds will thank you (and live longer).
🧊 5. Kettle Moraine Recycled Suet Feeder – Best Suet Feeder
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Type: Cage Feeder
Material: Recycled plastic & steel
Best For: Woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees
Why It’s Great:
This cage-style feeder is rugged, eco-friendly, and built to withstand those below-zero mornings when only the toughest birds (and coffee drinkers) venture out.
HelpfulGuy Tip:
Offer suet in winter and early spring when birds need extra fat to stay warm. Summer? Stick to seed.
Final Thoughts: Pick What Fits Your Flock
There’s no one-feeder-fits-all solution. Mix and match based on your local birds, space, and how much you want to battle the local squirrel militia.
Top Choice Overall:
If you’re starting out and want a bulletproof option—go with the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus. It’s user-friendly, effective, and keeps both birds and humans happy.
Feeder Pro Tip:
Install multiple types—tube, platform, suet, and nectar feeders—to create a bird buffet. It’s like the Golden Corral of your backyard, minus the sneeze guards.