This article was taken from the January 2015 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.

How we tested

With the help of beekeeper Jack Chapman, WIRED tested three hives in the National Turst's Polesden Lacey orchard over a 12-month period. Each was assessed on design, hive material, functionality for the beekeeper and the amount of honey produced. A 2013 queen and five frames of brood were used in each. Using a Lascar Electronics data logger, Chapman measured the temperature and humidity of each hive throughout the winter to test their thermal properties.

This article was originally published by WIRED UK