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There are many things in life that people take for granted and the air around is one of them. Everyone takes it for granted, but at the same time, everyone is aware of pollution, contaminants, and more or less severe environments.
The situation is less likely to harm overnight – unless severe pollution occurs. But in the long run, the effects can be devastating and may include allergies or even more severe affections like asthma or even lung cancer.
The situation is a bit more dangerous for those who already suffer from respiratory issues. Whether you care about the quality of your air, you are asthmatic or you suffer from an allergy, the necessity of keeping an eye on the air quality is obvious.
Finding the best air quality monitor is not impossible, but it takes a bit of education. Such a device will measure the most common pollutants in the air, so it will help you make a more informed decision regarding the risks you are exposed to or the appliances you might need to purify the air.
You need to know what to look for, but also go through the top-rated air quality monitors in commerce in order to make the right decision.
Comparison Table
It is essential to follow a few rules when hunting the air quality monitor. You need value for money – in other words, you do not need the most expensive or cheapest monitor on the market, but the one with cost-effectiveness.
At the same time, you have to figure out why you need this monitor, so pick one according to your specific necessities. A top-rated unit is a monitor that works for hundreds or even thousands of people – probably your best choice.
It provides accurate readings and allows you to come up with your own applets.
It provides real time measurements and tracks more types of pollutants.
It works both indoors and outdoors, but it also notifies you when you need to turn purifiers or dehumidifiers on.
It has a futuristic appearance and tracks lots of contaminants.
It is portable and contact, but it also works as a four in one monitoring machine.
It provides accurate readings and allows you to come up with your own applets.
It provides real time measurements and tracks more types of pollutants.
It works both indoors and outdoors, but it also notifies you when you need to turn purifiers or dehumidifiers on.
It has a futuristic appearance and tracks lots of contaminants.
It is portable and contact, but it also works as a four in one monitoring machine.
Top 5 Air Quality Monitor
#1. Awair 2nd Edition Air Quality Monitor
Awair has created the best model there if you are after great features at an affordable price. This model is the second generation. The initial one was just as good and represented a front runner for a few years. Given the upgrades, the new release should be even better.
The monitor keeps an eye on the carbon dioxide, dust, humidity, temperature and chemicals in your air. You will get a numerical level on the screen, but you can also get a score. The score is based on a scale from 1 to 100. The higher the number, the cleaner your air is.
The design is simplistic. It looks clean and futuristic, but it also has a vintage breeze with that wooden case. The case is made from walnut timber and provides a warm design – a nice change from the simplistic gadgets available in commerce these days.
The monitor measures 6.3×3.5 inches and can go on a table, counter or nightstand. Make sure it has a clear sight for maximum efficiency.
In terms of performance, the air quality monitor is accurate and you can tell it works. Gather around more people or start cooking and the CO2 readings will rise. Open the window and they will go back to normal.
You can download Awair’s proprietary app for more information regarding the readings, as well as a bit of customization. You can also integrate the device into your smart home, as it can take voice commands from assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
IFTTT applets allow specific actions based on air quality. For example, you can log dust levels in a spreadsheet, but you can also blink a smart light bulb if the levels of CO2 can become harmful. You are free to come up with your own applets and triggers too.
Things we like
- The possibility to create your own applets
- Beautiful design – a mix of modern and vintage
- Accurate readings
- Proprietary app
Things we do not like
- The display can be a bit difficult to read at a glance due to the old fashioned LED style
#2. Air Quality Pollution Monitor
This might be the best monitor if you are after value for money. It is not fancy and it does not look like a modern gadget. Instead, it looks a bit industrial, but it will get the job done in no time – performance is flawless.
The unit is designed for indoor air quality, so it will not be too accurate outside. It checks the temperature in Celsius degrees, as well as the humidity and the quality – organic compounds, dust, natural and synthetic elements, formaldehyde and other similar contaminants from the air.
The monitor is a handheld device – similar to an old game boy. It is not the best looking thing in the world, but at least it is portable. You can check the quality pretty much anywhere or you can just leave it somewhere for continuous measurements. You can check your room, your office or even your car.
Even when the device charges, you still have some portability due to its long wire. It comes with a 2.8-inch screen, which is colorful and clear. The control panel consists of a few buttons – pretty straightforward, even if you have never used such things before.
The measurement is relatively fast due to the powerful fan that draws in ambient air. At the same time, you have a laser air quality sensor to check the dust in the air and another sensor for formaldehyde and other compounds.
Buyers will get a comprehensive ebook on air quality too – details on what is healthy and what is dangerous, as well as affections associated with a poor air quality.
Things we like
- Can track chemicals, toxins, temperature, and humidity
- Portable and easy to use, regardless of the room you want to check
- iOS and Android applications for more information
- Real-time measurements
Things we do not like
- The design is not really attractive, as it looks like a classic measurement tool
#3. Kaiterra Laser Egg+
The new Laser Egg+ air quality monitor has been designed with CO2 as its primary focus. The previous model had similar characteristics, but this one is more accurate and works faster. Install it and you can check the air quality within seconds only.
The installation takes a few minutes. Plug it in and turn it on. You will have to download Kaiterra’s proprietary app – available on both Android and iOS – and connect it to the device, so you get everything on your phone as well.
The device monitors chemicals, humidity, temperature, CO2 and fine dust. You will get the same information on both the device and the app, but the app also compares your data to your area, not to mention hourly breakdowns and more details on pollutants.
Unlike other air quality monitors in this range, the Laser Egg+ will work both indoors and outdoors. Apart from seeing pollutants and their levels, you will also see the history of each of them, only to figure out if they go up or down.
Users will get a few tips as well. The device will tell you when to turn the dehumidifier or purifier on. It is worth noting that it also works with IFTTT. Some applets will let you know when the air quality is too low.
Things we like
- Works both indoor air and outdoor as well.
- The proprietary app provides current measurements, as well as a history
- Notifications when you might need to take action
- Can track multiple pollutants
Things we do not like
- Does not work with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa
#4. iClever Air Quality Monitor
iClever is known for developing some of the most advanced futuristic gadgets. Its air quality monitor is a good looking gadget – white, simplistic and easy to implement into any kind of décor. It comes with a simple screen on top of it, as well as a straightforward use. Whether or not you have used an air monitor before, you will get used to it within seconds only.
Whether it comes to pollution, smoking or cooking, the monitor will track PM2.5 contaminants and particles, so it will inevitably let you know when to run a purifier or perhaps change the air filter for a healthier living environment.
The monitor targets more contaminants – PM1, PM2.5 and PM10. Basically, it will cover the finest contaminants, including dust that you cannot even see Other than that, it will monitor the humidity in your environment, as well as the temperature.
The unit is portable – it weighs less than 10 ounces, so you can take it to your office, hotel room or even car. You can download iClever’s application and get real-time information and histories. The app will also provide personalized tips for a healthier environment.
The LED display is intuitive. If it is green, the air quality is good. If it is read, you live in an unhealthy environment, while the orange lights underline a moderate air quality. The display will not provide too much info, so you are less likely to get confused with the data.
The air monitor can be charged with the USB cable included in the package. It has a built-in lithium battery too. It will provide portable measurements for around four hours.
You will get notifications regarding the extractor fan, air purifier or dehumidifier as soon as the air quality goes bad. You will know precisely when and what appliances to turn on in order to keep your lungs clean.
Things we like
- Monitors multiple aspects that can harm your health
- Easy to understand readings and operation
- Can take four hours of portable measurements
- Good looking gadget
Things we do not like
- Cannot track volatile organic chemicals or carbon dioxide
#5. Temtop M10 Air Quality Monitor
Measuring 3.2×3.2×1.2 inches, this is one of the smallest air quality monitors on the market. Do not let the tiny cute size fool you, as it can be extremely efficient if placed in the right position and with no obstructions right in front of it.
Temtop’s best air quality monitor is about the size of a classic nightstand clock. It looks modern though. It has a futuristic white case and a black screen on one of the sides. It is easy to read at a glance and displays the optimal information.
Despite the size, this monitor is a four in one unit. It will measure PM2.5 (small particles of dust that you may not even see), TVOC, HCHO and AQI. In other words, it measures pretty much most pollutants hanging around residential areas.
It features a third-generation laser sensor, as well as a unique algorithm targeting the particle swarm optimization. Such technologies add to the accuracy of the monitor, but also to its stability in measurements. Another sensor is specifically designed for formaldehyde measurements – Official Dart electrochemical sensor.
Since it is so small, the monitor can clearly go anywhere. You can keep it in literally any room of your house, but you can also take it to your office or a hotel room. You might as well keep it in your car if you drive for a living and you are worried about your working environment.
The monitor has a 2200mAh lithium battery. Once fully charged – the charger is included in the package, it will last for about six hours.
Things we like
- Easy to install or keep anywhere due to its compact size – rooms, offices, cars and so on
- Four in one measuring capabilities – AQI, TVOC, PM2.5 and HCHO
- A colorful indicator light that allows seeing measurements at a glance
- Cyclic display mode by double-clicking the button
Things we do not like
- The plastic in its composition feels fragile, so make sure you do not drop it
What To Look For In A Air Quality Monitor
Generally speaking, there are three major aspects to look for when hunting the air quality monitor. You want quality, which can go in more directions – accuracy, durability and so on. You also want a good price. Simply put, you want great value for money. Last, but not least, you need a top-rated item based on others’ reviews. When it works for so many people, it will most likely work for you too.
Now, what are the main features to look for?
Night light
The night light can come in two different ways. It could be the display or it could be a separate light. This is not really a mandatory feature, especially as lots of people require proper darkness to sleep. But then, whether you want a bit of light around you or you need to keep an eye on the air quality at a glance, a bit of light will work wonders.
LED display
The LED display is the most common type in air quality monitors, but definitely not the only one. An LED display gives you a bit of convenience. Worried about the air quality in your home? You do not always need to unlock your phone, run the app and check the measurements. Besides, some monitors may not even have an app. Instead, you want to make sure you can check the air quality at a glance.
Smart integrations
While this feature is common in a few air quality monitors on the market, it is not a standard yet. It is slowly getting there, but it might be something worth investing it. Smart integrations imply controlling and checking air quality monitors by simply asking smart assistants, such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
At the same time, a bit of extra integration can ensure your air quality monitor can turn on various appliances – such as dehumidifiers or purifiers – if the situation goes too far. Sure, you could get notifications too, but a bit of smart integration will add to your convenience.
Smartphone access
Many air quality monitors come with proprietary applications. They are usually available for Android and iOS systems. This is not a general rule though. However, having access to the monitor through an app will usually provide more data than the actual device. You will see histories and recordings over long periods of time, so you can get an idea about the evolution of air quality.
Moreover, smartphone access allows you to check the air quality remotely.
Air quality history
Air quality history is quite important. You probably think about it – why would I care about the air quality in my house two months ago? Simple.
If the air quality is poor, you will obviously try to improve it. You might get a purifier or perhaps a dehumidifier. Maybe you need to aerate the house more often or clear some pollutants. Being able to see the history will help you determine whether the steps you are taking actually work. It will tell you whether you do something right or your work is in vain.
Conclusion
As a short final conclusion, deciding on the best air quality monitor is not as hard as it seems. Going for the top-rated items in commerce will save you lots of time. At the end of the day, you want a proven product from a reputable manufacturer.
The above-mentioned monitors are well rated and can handle most contaminants in an average home. They also come with a few bells and whistles for your convenience, but without affecting the final price.
Editor Side Notes: If you want to secure your perimeter with a thermal CCTV, here is our guide on the best thermal security camera that we have recently reviewed.
FAQs:
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers regarding air quality monitors. By going through this section, most of your queries will be solved easily.
Are air quality monitors worth it?
Absolutely. If you are healthy, poor air quality will affect you in the long run. It will not happen in a day, a week or a month, but it will happen. It could be an allergy or you might end up with asthma or even more severe conditions.
Keeping an eye on the air quality will help you identify harmful elements that you cannot actually see. You would then be able to make more informed decisions.
How do air quality monitors work?
Air quality monitors work on similar principles, regardless of the manufacturer. Generally speaking, they come with some small sensors. These sensors are suitable for various pollutants. The air is then sucked in, so these sensors identify contaminants in your air. Results are displayed on the screen or over a smartphone application.
How can I monitor air quality in my home?
Finding the air quality monitor is by far the most efficient way to monitor air quality. Sure, there are certain types of pollution that can be sensed, whether the smell is too strong or you feel bad straight away. But other than that, an air quality monitor is your best bet.
Can air quality monitors detect mold?
Yes and no. Most air quality monitors will not provide specific details on mold. But at the same time, mold floats in your home, so a good air quality monitor will identify those particles as dust or chemicals.
Where is the best air quality in the world?
New Zealand is rated the country with the cleanest air in the world. However, certain parts of polluted countries – such as mountainous areas far from large cities – will also have clean and fresh air, regardless of the country.
What time of the day is air quality the best?
In the average residential environment, the air quality is the best between noon and 6PM. While it might look like the lack of activity overnight is excellent for air quality, the cold air will push itself to the ground, causing contaminants to build up.
