9 Best Air Quality Monitors in 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide
Here you can find the best air quality monitor that notifies the air quality of your surroundings.
Some floating particles like dirt, pollen, bacteria, smoke, some gases (carbon monoxide, radon, & CO2), VOCs, and airborne particulate matter (PM) in the air will pollute both indoor and outdoor air.
An air quality monitor is the best to deal with indoor air pollution as it figures out whether the inside air is good to breathe or has to be improved. It shows a reading of several pollutants in indoor air. Based on this, you have to install a new HVAC system, replace the filters, clean the air ducts or buy Air Purifiers to ensure safe and healthy air in the home.
With the availability of multiple options in the market, it would be a bit difficult to choose the right option. So, we recommend you consider the following key factors before buying the air quality monitor.
- Pollutant it Measures –
There are several pollutants present in the air, yet it is essential to choose an air quality monitor that provides a clear, thorough reading of your indoor air. It uses sensors to detect the particulates present in the air. Some models measure small PM (2.5), and VOCs, while some other monitors offer measurements of CO2, humidity, temperature, and other pollutants. So, choose them wisely.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity –
Most air quality monitor devices come with Wi-Fi connectivity that lets you easily connect to your smartphones (Android or iOS) through their related app. Connect the unit to the home’s internet to get control over its operation. You can check the data on the phone to get a clear idea of recorded pollution data.
- Power Supply –
Air quality monitors are either powered by a battery, USB, or standard electrical outlet. Based on the power source you have to choose the best option. If you want to use them at fixed places, then choose a corded model. Alternatively, prefer a battery-operated model or USB rechargeable portable model when you want to take it around.
For more information on air quality monitors, we recommend you read our detailed “Buying Guide”. Using the same information, we compiled a list of some top-notch Air Quality Monitors available in the market. Go through them to know how to select your best option as per your requirements.
9 Best Air Quality Monitors in 2023
Best Air Quality Monitors in 2023: Reviews
The Awair Element Indoor Air Quality Monitor has a pretty solid construction, and even the form-factor is quite small. Despite that, it has all the necessary sensors for tracking temperature, humidity, CO2, VOCs, and also PM2.5 particles in the air.
Although it can only display the air quality index on the device, you can download the Awair Home App on both iOS and Android smartphones for more details on the air quality. It has great integration with smart devices like Alexa, Google Home, and seamlessly connects over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Connection or Bluetooth.
Specifications:
- Power: AC
- Wireless: Bluetooth and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
- Platform: iOS and Android
No. of Sensors: 5
- Temperature
- Humidity
- VOCs
- PM 2.5
- CO2
Pros:
- Compact and Stylish
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Supports both iOS and Android smartphones
Cons:
- Only works on AC power
- Does not measures HCHO levels
Summary: The Awair Element Indoor Air Quality Monitor is a perfect device for anyone who wants to stay updated about indoor air quality. Its various sensors allow it to offer accurate results and the several connectivity options make your experience even better.
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The Airthings – 2930 Wave Plus is quite a special device since it boasts a separate sensor for measuring the radon levels. Apart from that, it has all the other necessary sensors for measuring TVOC, CO2, Pressure, Humidity, and Temperature as well. The overall design is pretty sleek and it takes 2 AA batteries for this device to start working. Speaking of its connectivity features, you can simply pair it with any smart device like Alexa, Google Assistant in your home.
Instead of any display, the 2930 Wave Plus comes with a ring LED light that flashes green, yellow, or red depending on the air quality it measures. However, if you want to see exact data, connecting this device with your iOS or Android smartphone via the Airthings App is also doable.
Specifications:
- Power: 2 AA Batteries
- Wireless: Bluetooth
- Platform: iOS and Android
No. of Sensors: 6
- Radon
- CO2
- TVOCs
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Air Pressure
Pros:
- Effectively measures Radon levels
- Has Air Pressure sensor also
- Supports both Android and iOS platforms
Cons:
- No display on the device itself
- Slightly expensive
Summary: The Airthings – 2930 Wave Plus has one of the simplest designs as it only comes with an indicator ring light. The overall connection process to iOS and Android Smartphones is very seamless. It can measure Radon levels which makes it stand out from the crowd.
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If you are looking for a high-quality air quality monitor for your home, you can’t miss out to check this one from YVELINES. Not too small, neither too large, it is a perfect-sized dock that can be placed anywhere in your home. Its large LCD colour screen is one of the most attractive parts of this AQM device. Although there are no such connectivity options, it still does not feel like it lacks anything.
Since it uses the DART Electrochemical Sensor Technology, even the slightest fluctuations in the levels of CO2 HCHO/TVOC values is detected accurately. On top of that, you get accurate readings about PM2.5/PM10 particles as well as shown an overall mean value on the screen too. Using this outdoors is even possible as it is powered by a 2000mAh battery which can last up to 8 hours easily.
Specifications:
- Power: 2000mAh polymer lithium battery
- Display: colour LCD screen
No. of Sensors: 5
- CO2
- Formaldehyde HCHO
- TVOC
- PM 2.5
- PM10
Pros:
- Highly accurate readings
- Easy to Operate
- Measures all kinds of toxicants
Cons:
- Temperature and Humidity Sensors are absent
Summary: It’s an amazing air quality monitoring dock, ideal for indoors. Using it is pretty simple as you get all the controls on the device itself. Moreover, it has a decently large-sized display and works on a 2000mAh in-built battery which lasts for about 8-12 hours normally.
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EG is one of the best brands around which produces high-quality hand-held Air Quality monitors. That said, we have come across this device which shows you real-time measurements using its various sensors. It can effectively measure HCHO levels, TVOC, and the concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 particles in the air, and also show the overall results with colour indicators.
The device has a 2.8” colour LCD display and a beautiful interface for a decent user experience. Although it can run continuously on 5V DC micro USB charging, its 2200mAh rechargeable battery comes in handy when you are outdoors.
Specifications:
- Power: 5V DC micro USB charging, and 2200mAh rechargeable battery
- Display: 2.8” colour LCD panel
No. of Sensors: 4
- HCHO
- TVOC
- PM 2.5
- PM10
Pros:
- Highly portable
- Easy to Handle
- Ideal for indoors and outdoors
Cons:
- Does not detects CO2
Summary: If you primarily want to check for the HCHO, TVOC, and Particulate matter in the air, it is the most portable and handy option that you can get your hands on. While the 5V DC micro USB charging keeps it running indoors, the 2200mAh battery will help you use it outdoors.
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The Multifunctional Air Gas Detector from Biaoling is what most professionals prefer using because of its sheer accurate results. Although it is designed to be used indoors, testing the outdoor environment won’t damage it anyways. Due to the presence of a large 3000mAh battery, it lasts for about 8-12 hours easily depending on the usage.
Speaking of its display, it boasts a large colour LCD panel that displays HCHO, TVOC, PM2.5, PM10, CO2, Mean value, and colour indications about the overall nearby environment. The overall design of this Air Quality monitor is pretty sleek, hence, it’s easy to handle.
Specifications:
- Power: 3000mAh in-built battery
- Display: colour LCD panel
No. of Sensors: 5
- HCHO
- TVOC
- PM 2.5
- PM10
- CO2
Pros:
- Large 3000mAh in-built battery
- Hand-held portable design
- Has the 5 essential sensors
Cons:
- No Mobile app support
Summary: This is one of the best options to pick as it comes with all the necessary sensors to measure the air quality of indoor environments. Its colour display also shows the mean value which helps to determine the overall air quality index.
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The M10 from Temtop is designed as a portable smart option used to measure air quality. This has 4-in-1 multifunctional indexes that measure and monitor PM2.5, HCHO, AQI, and TVOC accurately to know all about indoor air quality.
With its core technology industrial-grade PM2.5 laser sensor, professional high-tech components, and formaldehyde sensor will detect the air quality by ensuring professionalism and ultra-precision in the values. It comes with a single button to turn on/off, auto-loop, and interface switching features.
This USB-powered device monitors the health level continuously with a built-in 2200mAh lithium rechargeable battery and shows the digital readings for 6 hours upon a single charge on an LCD display. In addition, it is quite easy to use, thanks to its 3-color LED light (good, fair, and poor) indicating the air quality to know whether healthy or unhealthy. Coming to its warranty and customer support, the Temtop offers a 1-year long warranty and excellent 24/7 customer access.
Specifications:
Power: 5V DC micro USB charging, and 2200mAh in-built battery
Display: LCD panel
No. of Sensors: 4
- PM 2.5
- AQI
- TVOC
- HCHO
Pros:
- Easy to operate
- Offer highly accurate readings
- Durable, compact, and portable model
- Suitable for only indoor use
- Rechargeable battery that lasts 6 hours upon a single charge.
Cons:
- No support for mobile application
- Does not have humidity and temperature sensors
Summary: It is one of the best portable options for those looking to check the basic Particulate matter, TVOC, and HCHO in the air. Moreover, it runs on a 2200mAh in-built battery to show results on the LCD screen lasting for around 6 hours.
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If you are fond of hand-held devices, this air quality monitor from Igeress is yet another great option to consider. This device comes installed with a tiny fan that accelerates the airflow and helps to show real-time results. On its beautiful colour LCD panel, you can read all the measurements quite easily.
PM10, PM2.5 particles, and the ultrafine PM1 particles along with other toxicants like formaldehyde (HCHO), TVOCs, CO2, etc. are monitored by this device. Apart from that, separate sensors for measuring humidity levels and temperature are also provided on this device which makes it an all-rounder Air Quality Monitor for indoor use.
Specifications:
- Power: In-built Battery
- Display: colour LCD panel
No. of Sensors: 6
- HCHO
- TVOC
- PM 2.5
- PM10
- Temperature
- Humidity
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Measures the ultrafine PM1 particles
- colour display makes it easier to read
Cons:
- No connectivity options
Summary: It is basically a formaldehyde (HCHO) detector that can also measure other aspects like TVOC, PM2.5/1/10 in the air. It is widely used by professionals because of its highly durable construction and accurate results.
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Eve Store is a well-known for providing several security and home needs that include lighting solutions, air quality monitors and several others. This product is capable of measuring volatile organic compounds, humidity levels, and temperature.
The application of this air quality monitor is compatible with iOS, and IPad. It works well with Bluetooth low energy, thread. It comes with in-built micro-USB and rechargeable battery. On a complete charge, the battery will last for almost 6 weeks.
Specifications:
- Power – rechargeable battery
- WiFi – Bluetooth, thread
- Platform – iOS
No. of Sensors: 3
- Volatile organic compound concentration
- Humidity levels
- Temperature
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery
- High-contrast e-ink display
- Advanced security
- No registration
- No tracking
- Aluminum frame
Cons:
- Suitable for only indoor use
Summary – This air quality monitor is the perfect choice for people who want an efficient model at affordable price range. It comes with a unique display which provides clear readings.
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Amazon is a well-known brand which has started provided several in-house products that include an air quality monitor as well. This air quality monitor analyses the air and keeps tabs on 5 different factors that include carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, temperature, humidity, particulate matter and temperature.
It is compatible with Alexa App which keeps the data stored for references. It also provides general tips on how to improve the quality and others. It comes with a LED indicator which notifies by blinking red when the air quality is below normal levels.
Specifications:
- Power: 100-240V 50/60Hz
- Wireless: WiFi
- Platform: iOS and Android
No. of Sensors: 5
- Particulate matter
- Volatile organic compounds
- Carbon monoxide
- Humidity
- Temperature
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Value for money
- Get alerts from Alexa
- LED indicator
Cons:
- The Application is not user-friendly
Summary – This air quality monitor is an excellent option for people who want a high-quality model. It is compatible with iOS and android phones. It is compact, light in weight and portable so you can carry it around easily.
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How to Pick the Best Air Quality Monitor:
Till now, we have mentioned all the best air quality monitors for you to pick from. However, if you have any confusion in the selection of the right product, then we suggest you read this guide thoroughly. Remember if you know what features to consider when choosing the best option will make the selection process a bit easy task.
Let’s get into the details of factors to look for while shopping for this air quality monitor.
1. Measurements:
Always select an air quality monitor offering clear, thorough reading of your indoor air. The models measuring small PM (like PM 2.5) and VOCs will work well for understanding the air quality in your house. These two measurements are essential to keep healthy and proper air conditions. Models offering CO2, humidity, air pressure, temperature measurements are further informed.
2. Precision:
Laboratory monitors will deliver more precise results than consumer quality detectors. Yet the consumer-grade models are sufficient to alert the owners about the toxic gases and airborne particulates in their indoor air. Usually, the models detecting harmful gases like CO, and VOCs have electrochemical sensors, which quickly respond to the presence of gaseous toxins in the air. However, the sensors have to be regulated as per the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate results.
While monitors meant to detect allergens, dust, and other airborne particulates will estimate the amount of particulate matter (PM), moving ahead of the laser. Though these measurements are valuable, yet not exact, why because larger PM may not drift into the laser chamber and tiny PM is overlooked by the laser.
Only the smallest particulates will be detected by the monitors that are designed to detect the PM. For instance, if the model accepts a PM 2.5 rating will detect the air particulates as small as 2.5 microns. As a comparison, human hair rates roughly 70 microns in diameter.
3. Ease of Use:
Based on your previous experience of using these monitor units, you have to select a model that lets you use them with ease. Generally, some units are perfect for beginners, whereas others are suitable for advanced users due to their high-tech features.
While monitors detecting one or two pollutants are easy to use, why because they won’t need to put much effort. All you need to set them and read the measurements on the unit at a faster rate with no more hassles.
Some advanced versions of these air quality monitors will detect several pollutants and display the data in graph or numerical form, which might be devastating for some people. While few users can easily understand this level of granular data to effectively monitor the air quality in their home.
Finally, the air quality monitor which you choose should be easy to use (based on your technical skills) and work as per your requirement. Never invest in a complex model that lets you spend a lot of hours to figure out how it works.
4. Size:
Since the air quality monitors have a sensor and display screen to read the amount of pollutants in the air, they are fairly smaller in size. The portable models that are fit in a tool bag or purse are considered the smallest and best option to test the air quality on your worksites or home without having any stationary monitors.
A handheld battery-operated air quality monitor is the best option for those who test the air quality at multiple places or on the go. It gives real-time readouts, which makes it available at the price range of elegant design or detailed display. Alternatively, a model meant to stay stable in one location like a tabletop or a wall might be a bit more visually pleasing.
5. Response Time:
A higher-quality monitor will let you get a quick response time from the readings, why because they have a bit more accurate sensors, which can gather crucial information at a faster rate. The pollutants which you are monitoring will also affect this response time.
In case, if the particular air pollutant is dangerous to your health, then the response time may delay (less), why because the device has to measure them with the most accuracy. For instance, while monitoring the levels of carbon monoxide (CO), the monitor unit will detect a small amount of gas in the air, then it might inform you after a couple of hours.
If there are high levels of dangerous carbon monoxide in the air, then it will inform you within a few minutes that alert you to leave the place. Whereas monitors measuring pollen and dust won’t emit a warning, yet simply track and record the varying levels of the pollutants by the hour.
6. Portability:
Some people prefer to carry this air quality monitor to use at various job sites or multiple locations. In case, if you are looking to carry out this monitor with you all around, then concentrate more on the shape, weight, and size of the model before making its purchase.
While it is a bit difficult to move strangely shaped air quality monitors around as opposed to the handheld or rectangular design, which we find mostly on the models.
7. Wi-Fi Smart Control:
An air quality monitor with Wi-Fi control is the best option for beginners, as it is easy to use and allows you to track the data from their tablet or smartphone. The monitor is not required to boast the feature, yet most new models offer you this control feature.
Connect the Wi-Fi smart air quality monitor to the internet router of the home to use them. Here you will get the data on the phone (on Android or iOS devices). Whenever you get into this proprietary app, you can easily get a clear vision of your required information.
Also, this app will record the pollution data and show this over time. you can set up push notifications in some brands to get you alert whenever the particular air pollutant levels are too high to make the essential action for its control.
8. Power Supply:
Air quality monitors are either battery operated, USB powered, or from a standard wall electrical outlet. If you wish to take a portable monitor with you to several locations, then prefer to look for a battery-powered air quality monitor (or) a model with the rechargeable through USB. Alternatively, prefer a corded option when you want the monitor to be placed in one spot in the house.
9. Display & Features:
A model with an easy-to-use and well-rated display monitor will aid in proper accuracy. Most models get to pair with your computer or phone to maximize the screen size and display options. Moreover, consider the type of the model – portable or stationary and monitor along with power source (to be plugged into the wall outlet or use rechargeable batteries).
However, if you are moving from one place to another for work, then smaller portable units are highly preferred yet have small display screens and limited battery life. So, it is essential to check these factors while making its selection.
10. Price:
The price of air quality monitors is based on which pollutants/parameters it detects and other features. Its general price range will be from $35 – $500. We suggest you choose the product that balances your requirements and price range.
11. Warranty:
Everyone wants to purchase a durable and long-lasting product without any manufacturing defects. So, it is essential to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer on their product to have peace of mind. Most of these air quality monitors come with a warranty of 1 year, while some offer a 2-year long warranty. Check the warranty period along with the customer service of a particular manufacturer and reviews on the product before making its purchase.
How does an Air Quality Monitor Work?
Air quality monitors detect pollutants in the air like VOCs, particulate matter (PM 2.5), radon, carbon monoxide, etc. with the help of sensors and lasers. Also, it can measure humidity, temperature, and air pressure. Some models offer instant reading, while other models are programmed to record measurements in intervals. Every model works differently based on the types of pollutants it detects and how it is used (like standalone visual or Wi-Fi unit).
Types of Indoor Air Quality Monitors:
Mostly, indoor air quality monitors will come in three main types – portable, Wi-Fi smart, and handheld. Let’s know about them in detail to get a clear idea of which type is suitable for your needs.
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Portable Air Quality Monitors –
Since this portable air quality monitor won’t have any wires to fix, you can take this unit to a place, where you need to assess the air quality. Thus, it is considered the most convenient option for the user. This monitor will display the device’s readings, and thereby provide a simple visual form of reading the collected data.
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Wi-Fi Smart Air Quality Monitors –
You can connect and control this unit with a smartphone via its related app. With this app, you can easily read the data for each pollutant it detects from any place without going near the monitor to check the measurements. They provide the most in-depth analysis of pollutants and let you customize the data in several ways.
So, it is considered the best indoor unit for most people. Some models have to be plugged in at all times to make it work properly (not portable), yet they are meant to stay in one location without moving around the home.
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Handheld Air Quality Monitors –
This type is considered the most basic monitoring system. It let you easily hold the monitor in your hand to know the reading. These are portable and won’t need any wires to plugin for their work. Mostly preferred by the air quality specialists or professionals, as they walk around and measure the pollution levels everywhere they go. It has simple controls and provides the basic analysis and measurements of common pollutants.
What does an Air Quality Monitor Measure and Indicate?
You should know what exactly an air quality monitor will measure and indicate before making its purchase. Here is a quick outlook of what parameters does this monitor will read.
Humidity – Indicating humidity in your home’s air will help you to prevent mold, why because too humid indoor space is a breeding ground for mold. Thus, you can concentrate on the leakages and improve the home’s ventilation.
Temperature – As we expect, high-temperature levels in your home will raise the concentration of certain pollutants like mold, bacteria, and others. Thus, your home is somewhat free from them.
Carbon Dioxide – You may suffer from headaches, loss of concentration, and a sense of sluggishness whenever there is an increased rate of carbon dioxide (CO2) in your home’s air. Thus, you can take essential steps to increase the oxygen levels in your home.
Air Pressure – Whenever there is a change in the barometric pressure, you might experience neck, head, and joint pain. Also, it causes changes in your blood sugar and blood pressure.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) – Inhaling high concentrated CO air will lessen the oxygen supply in the body, which is transported into the bloodstream to the heart and brain. Thus, it results in causing confusion, dizziness, unconsciousness, and may even death.
Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs) – There are numerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are produced in the air by several things you do at home like cooking, cleaning, and washing. It is a must to separately monitor all these VOCs. Usually, TVOC measurement will represent the overall combination of VOCs in the air.
Particulate Matter 2.5 – This particulate matter 2.5 (or PM 2.5, or fine particles) is referred to as the droplets or tiny particles in the air with 2.5 microns or less in the width. Most health experts state that exposure to these fine particles makes you suffer from short-term health effects like irritation of the eye, nose, lung, and throat, along with coughing, runny nose, sneezing, and shortness of breath.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why do we need to monitor indoor air quality?
Ans: Indoor air pollutants like smoke, dust, pollen, some gases, and dirt are major factors causing general discomfort and allergies. The use of an air quality monitor not only helps you keep track of which pollutants are there in the air of your home, but also lets you know how to reduce them to have clean air-breathing.
2. How to improve indoor air quality?
Ans: It is essential to learn about the air quality of your home to get rid of several health issues. Here are some cleaning tips that help to improve the air quality whenever you follow them regularly.
* Keep your home well ventilated.
* Proper cleaning of your home at regular intervals is required.
* Proper maintenance of cooling and heating systems (HVAC systems).
* If needed, purchase and use air purifiers.
3. Do air quality monitors detect mold in the air?
Ans: Generally, air quality monitors detect particulate matter (PM), where mold is one type in them. Though you can easily detect mold in most cases, yet doesn’t require any air quality monitors to detect this problem. The best solution to get rid of mold possibility in the home is to block leaks instantly, maintain low indoor humidity (mostly these monitors will warn when it is too high), and increase ventilation that allows some fresh air and prevent mold in your home.
4. What sort of air pollutants does an air quality monitor can measure?
Ans: Usually, an air quality monitor can detect pollutants that include carbon monoxide, radon, second-hand smoke, carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold, toxins and chemicals, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and dust (PM 2.5).
Conclusion:
We hope you have gone through all the products mentioned on the above list, and also the buying guide section as well. That said, there should not be any problem to anyone while picking the best suitable air quality monitor device for themselves. However, if you still need some help in choosing, we have a few recommendations for you all which are highly considerable, if you are not able to make the final call by yourself. Have a look!
- If you are a tech enthusiast and love to have various connectivity options, the Airthings – 2930 Air Quality Monitor is one of the best options on this list. It can be paired up with both iOS and Android smartphones via the Air things app. And, it even supports Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, etc.
- On the other hand, if you are looking for a premium air quality monitor that shows extremely accurate results, we believe the Air Quality Monitor from YVELINES Air Quality Monitor is best for this job. Although you won’t find any fancy connectivity options, its colour LCD panel will keep you updated about everything.
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If looking for a compact and portable air-quality monitor, then Temtop M10 Air Quality Monitor is the perfect choice for you. It has a superior build quality and all the essential sensors for monitoring PM 2.5, HCHO, TVOC, and AQI. Moreover, it offers a 1-year long warranty against manufacturing defects.
