The Airthings View Plus is, without a doubt, a game-changer for anyone serious about understanding and improving their indoor air quality. It’s not just another gadget. it’s a comprehensive, always-on monitor that provides incredibly detailed insights into key pollutants like radon, particulate matter PM2.5, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature, and air pressure. Think of it as the ultimate diagnostic tool for your home’s unseen environment, offering crucial data that empowers you to make informed decisions for healthier living. While its price point is higher than basic monitors, the sheer breadth of sensors and the user-friendly app interface make it a worthwhile investment for peace of mind and proactive health management. It’s like having a team of environmental scientists living in your house, quietly working 24/7 to keep you informed.

To put the Airthings View Plus into perspective, let’s look at how it stacks up against some other notable air quality monitors on the market.

Each has its strengths, but you’ll quickly see why the View Plus often comes out on top for comprehensive coverage.

Airthings View Plus
- Key Features: Monitors Radon, PM2.5, CO2, VOCs, Humidity, Temperature, Air Pressure. Wi-Fi connectivity, battery or USB-C powered, customizable display, app integration with historical data.
- Average Price: ~$299-$320
- Pros: Most comprehensive sensor suite in its class, excellent long-term radon monitoring, easy-to-read e-ink display, reliable data, smart home integration limited.
- Cons: Higher price point, e-ink display is not backlit, some users desire more direct smart home integrations with specific HVAC systems.
Airthings Wave Plus
- Key Features: Monitors Radon, CO2, VOCs, Humidity, Temperature, Air Pressure. Bluetooth connectivity requires smartphone proximity or Hub for remote access.
- Average Price: ~$229-$250
- Pros: More affordable than View Plus, excellent for radon, battery-powered for flexible placement.
- Cons: No PM2.5 sensor, Bluetooth only requires Airthings Hub or phone nearby for real-time remote data, no on-device display.
Awair Element
- Key Features: Monitors PM2.5, CO2, VOCs, Temperature, Humidity. Wi-Fi connectivity, sleek design, LED display.
- Average Price: ~$149-$170
- Pros: Good sensor array lacks radon, attractive design, clear LED display, integrates with some smart home platforms.
- Cons: Lacks radon detection a critical indoor pollutant, reported calibration drift by some users.
Aranet4 HOME
- Key Features: Monitors CO2, Temperature, Humidity, Air Pressure. Bluetooth connectivity, e-ink display.
- Average Price: ~$249-$270
- Pros: Highly accurate NDIR CO2 sensor, portable, long battery life, clear e-ink display.
- Cons: Very specialized only CO2, temp, humidity, lacks PM2.5, VOCs, and radon, Bluetooth only.
IQAir AirVisual Pro
- Key Features: Monitors PM2.5, CO2, Temperature, Humidity. Wi-Fi, touch screen display, indoor/outdoor data.
- Average Price: ~$269-$290
- Pros: Excellent PM2.5 sensor, clear touch screen, can show outdoor air quality, portable.
- Cons: Lacks VOCs and radon, battery life can be short on battery power, higher price for fewer sensors than View Plus.
Uhoo Indoor Air Quality Sensor
- Key Features: Monitors Temperature, Humidity, CO2, TVOCs, PM2.5, NO2, O3, Air Pressure. Wi-Fi connectivity, app integration.
- Pros: Broad range of sensors, including NO2 and O3 which are less common, good data presentation.
- Cons: Similar price to View Plus but lacks radon, some users report sensor drift over time.
Radonova Spikex
- Key Features: Specializes in continuous Radon monitoring.
- Average Price: ~$180-$200
- Pros: Highly accurate and reliable dedicated radon monitor, often used by professionals.
- Cons: Only monitors radon, no other air quality parameters, generally requires an outlet, no display.

Table of Contents

Unpacking the Airthings View Plus: A Deep Dive into Design and Sensors

When you first unbox the Airthings View Plus, you notice its thoughtful design.

It’s got this clean, understated look that blends into any room without screaming “I’m an air quality monitor!” But don’t let the minimalist aesthetic fool you.

Inside, it’s packed with an array of sophisticated sensors designed to give you a comprehensive picture of your indoor environment.

Airthings didn’t just throw a bunch of sensors in there.

They engineered it for accuracy and long-term reliability.

The Aesthetics and Ergonomics: More Than Just a Box

Airthings has always nailed the design aspect, and the View Plus is no exception.

It’s got a sleek, rectangular form factor, roughly the size of a small hardback book.

The e-ink display on the front is a stroke of genius.

Minimalist Design: It’s unobtrusive, whether mounted on a wall there’s a mounting bracket included or simply placed on a shelf. The white casing fits seamlessly with most modern decor.
E-Ink Display: This is a key differentiator. Unlike backlit LCDs that can be bright and distracting, the e-ink display is like paper. It’s easy on the eyes, legible from a distance, and sips power, which is crucial for a device that’s meant to be always on. You can customize what metrics it shows and how often it refreshes through the Airthings app. It’s designed to give you a quick glance at your air quality without needing to pull out your phone.
Intuitive “Wave” Function: A signature Airthings feature. Simply wave your hand in front of the device, and the indicator light on the front changes color – green, yellow, or red – to give you an immediate, high-level overview of your air quality status. Green means good, yellow means something’s off, and red means action is needed. This visual cue is super helpful for quick checks.

The Sensor Suite: What Exactly Is It Measuring?

This is where the Airthings View Plus truly shines. It’s equipped with seven different sensors, each providing critical data points for a holistic understanding of your indoor air. This breadth of measurement is what makes it a premium device.

Radon: This is arguably the most critical sensor for many users. Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, colorless radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. The View Plus uses an alpha spectroscopy sensor, providing continuous, reliable radon measurements over time. This continuous monitoring is far superior to short-term test kits, as radon levels fluctuate significantly based on season, weather, and ventilation.
Particulate Matter PM2.5: These are tiny airborne particles, 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, that are small enough to enter your lungs and even your bloodstream. Sources include smoke cooking, candles, wildfires, dust, pollen, and pet dander. The PM2.5 sensor helps identify issues like poor ventilation during cooking or the impact of external pollution. High PM2.5 levels are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Carbon Dioxide CO2: While not a direct pollutant in small concentrations, high CO2 levels indicate poor ventilation. When CO2 builds up from human respiration, other pollutants like VOCs can also accumulate. Elevated CO2 can lead to drowsiness, headaches, and reduced cognitive function. The View Plus helps you identify when you need to open a window or improve airflow.
Total Volatile Organic Compounds TVOCs: VOCs are gases emitted from various solids or liquids, many of which can have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Common sources include paints, cleaning supplies, new furniture, building materials, and personal care products. The TVOC sensor gives you a broad indication of chemical pollutants in your air.
Humidity: Crucial for comfort and health. Too low, and you can experience dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity. Too high, and you risk mold growth, dust mites, and mildew. Maintaining optimal humidity typically between 30-50% is important for both your health and the longevity of your home.
Temperature: While seemingly basic, temperature affects comfort and can influence the release of other pollutants. For example, higher temperatures can increase off-gassing from VOC sources.
Air Pressure: This sensor helps correlate changes in radon levels with atmospheric pressure fluctuations, as lower pressure can sometimes draw more radon from the ground into your home. It adds another layer of environmental context.

This comprehensive sensor package means you’re getting a complete picture, not just a snapshot. Dell Inspiron Desktop 3891 Review

It allows you to troubleshoot issues effectively, from identifying that new piece of furniture off-gassing VOCs to realizing your radon mitigation system needs a check-up.

Connectivity and User Experience: Navigating the Airthings Ecosystem

A great device is only as good as its user experience, and Airthings has largely nailed it with the View Plus.

From initial setup to daily monitoring, the process is streamlined and intuitive.

The integration of Wi-Fi connectivity and a well-designed mobile application makes accessing and understanding your air quality data remarkably easy.

Seamless Setup and Wi-Fi Integration

Getting the View Plus up and running is straightforward, which is a major win for any smart home device.

Power Options: The View Plus offers flexibility with power. You can run it on six AA batteries, which last for a significant period up to two years, though continuous Wi-Fi might reduce this, or plug it in via the included USB-C cable. Plugging it in allows for more frequent data updates to the cloud.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Unlike some Airthings models like the Wave Plus that rely solely on Bluetooth, the View Plus connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network. This is a must because it means you can monitor your air quality from anywhere in the world using the Airthings app, without needing to be physically near the device. The setup process guides you clearly through connecting it to your network. No complicated bridge or hub required for basic remote access.
Onboarding Process: The Airthings app walks you through the initial setup, from pairing the device to connecting it to your Wi-Fi. It’s largely painless, and most users will have it online within minutes.

The Airthings App: Your Command Center for Air Quality

The mobile application is the heart of the Airthings ecosystem.

It’s where you truly unlock the power of the View Plus’s data.

Intuitive Dashboard: The app opens to a clear dashboard showing real-time readings for all the sensors. Each metric is presented with its current value and a color-coded indicator green, yellow, red for quick assessment.
Historical Data and Trends: This is incredibly valuable. You can view hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, or even yearly trends for each pollutant. This allows you to identify patterns – for example, elevated PM2.5 during cooking, or CO2 spikes during family movie night. Understanding these trends helps you pinpoint sources and strategize solutions.
Detailed Explanations: Airthings does a good job of explaining what each metric means and what the recommended safe levels are. If a reading is high, the app provides actionable advice on what to do e.g., “Increase ventilation for CO2,” “Identify source of VOCs”. This educational aspect is crucial for empowering users to improve their environment.
Notifications and Alerts: You can set up custom alerts for specific thresholds. Want to know if your CO2 goes above 1000 ppm? Or if radon levels exceed 4 pCi/L? The app can send push notifications to your phone, ensuring you’re immediately aware of any critical changes. This proactive alerting is invaluable.
Multi-Device Management: If you have multiple Airthings devices e.g., a View Plus in the living room and a Wave Plus in the basement, the app allows you to manage all of them from a single interface, giving you a holistic view of your entire home’s air quality. You can name each device by room for easy identification.

Display Customization and User Feedback

The on-device e-ink display offers a surprising degree of customization.

Rotating Metrics: You can choose which three metrics are displayed prominently and how often the display refreshes. For instance, you might prioritize radon, PM2.5, and CO2, knowing you can always check humidity and temperature on the app.
Visual Cues: Beyond the numerical readings, the wave function provides an instant visual status. This immediate feedback, without even needing to look at specific numbers, is a testament to thoughtful user experience design. It’s like a quick “all clear” or “check me” signal for your home.

The combination of robust Wi-Fi, a feature-rich app, and user-friendly on-device display makes the Airthings View Plus a very accessible and powerful tool for monitoring and managing your indoor air quality.

You don’t need to be an environmental scientist to understand the data. the app does the heavy lifting for you. Clubhouse Review

Performance and Accuracy: Trusting Your Invisible Data

When you’re relying on a device to tell you about something as critical and invisible as your indoor air quality, accuracy is paramount.

The Airthings View Plus, while not laboratory-grade, is designed to provide reliable, actionable data for residential use.

Its performance, particularly with continuous monitoring, is a key selling point.

Sensor Reliability and Calibration

Airthings uses high-quality sensors within the View Plus, selected for their stability and long-term performance.

Radon Sensor: This is Airthings’ bread and butter. Their alpha spectroscopy technology is well-regarded for consumer-grade radon detection. While it takes about 7 days to provide stable initial readings, the continuous monitoring is crucial. Radon levels fluctuate significantly, so a long-term average is far more indicative of your actual exposure risk than a single, short-term test. Many users find the View Plus’s radon readings align well with professional short-term and long-term tests.
PM2.5 Sensor: The particulate matter sensor uses a laser scattering method, common in consumer devices. It provides a good indication of airborne particle levels. It’s responsive enough to show spikes from cooking, vacuuming, or nearby wildfires. It’s important to keep the sensor intake clear of dust for optimal performance.
CO2 NDIR Sensor: The View Plus typically employs a Non-Dispersive Infrared NDIR sensor for CO2, which is generally considered the most accurate technology for consumer CO2 monitors. This sensor provides reliable readings that are essential for assessing ventilation.
VOC Sensor: TVOC sensors are generally broad-spectrum sensors, meaning they detect a wide range of organic compounds. They are excellent for indicating the presence of unusual off-gassing e.g., from new paint or furniture but don’t identify specific chemicals. Their readings tend to stabilize after a burn-in period often a few days after initial power-on as the sensor acclimatizes to its environment.
Temperature and Humidity: These sensors are generally very accurate and provide consistent readings that align with other household thermometers/hygrometers.

Long-Term Monitoring: Why Continuous Data Matters

One of the Airthings View Plus’s greatest strengths is its ability to provide continuous, long-term data. This isn’t just a nice-to-have.

It’s essential for understanding your indoor environment.

Identifying Trends and Sources: Short-term spikes are important, but understanding how levels fluctuate over days, weeks, and months is key. You can see how opening windows affects CO2, how a specific cleaning product impacts VOCs, or how seasonal changes influence radon. This data empowers you to identify specific sources of pollution and the effectiveness of your mitigation efforts. For instance, you might notice your radon levels consistently creep up in the winter when your windows are closed and ground is frozen.
Actionable Insights: Continuous monitoring allows you to test hypotheses. “If I run the bathroom fan longer after a shower, does humidity stay lower?” “Does replacing that old air filter bring down my PM2.5?” The data provides the answers, enabling you to make informed adjustments to your habits or home systems.
Radon Averaging: For radon, the long-term average is the most important metric. Airthings provides a rolling 24-hour, 7-day, and long-term average which resets after 90 days for regulatory purposes but maintains your overall history in the app. This is what professional radon mitigation specialists look at, and it’s what determines your actual risk exposure.

Factors Affecting Readings and Best Practices

While the View Plus is accurate, it’s important to understand factors that can influence its readings and how to optimize its performance.

Placement: Place the device where you spend the most time and away from direct drafts, heat sources, or extreme humidity like directly above a humidifier. For radon, basement or ground floor living areas are ideal. For PM2.5, keep it in a central living space.
“Burn-in” Period: Especially for VOC sensors, it takes a few days for the sensor to stabilize and provide accurate readings after initial power-up. Don’t be alarmed by erratic VOC readings in the first 24-48 hours.
Sensor Lifespan: Like all electronic sensors, they have a lifespan. While Airthings sensors are designed for longevity, some like the VOC sensor might degrade over many years. Regular use, however, generally doesn’t require replacement within a typical product lifespan.
Not a Scientific Instrument: Remember, the View Plus is a consumer device. While it provides highly reliable and actionable data, it’s not a certified scientific instrument for regulatory compliance. If you have extremely high radon readings, for instance, you should still consult a certified radon mitigation professional.

Overall, the Airthings View Plus delivers on its promise of reliable and continuous air quality monitoring.

It’s designed to provide the kind of data you need to proactively manage and improve the invisible air in your home, which is a powerful thing.

Smart Home Integration and Ecosystem: Beyond Just Monitoring

While the Airthings View Plus excels as a standalone air quality monitor, its true value increases when it integrates with other aspects of your smart home. Sophos Home Free Review

Airthings has been steadily expanding its ecosystem, offering capabilities that go beyond just displaying numbers, allowing for more automated and responsive indoor environment management.

Limited but Growing Smart Home Connectivity

Compared to some other smart devices, Airthings’ direct smart home integrations might seem less extensive, but they are focused on practical applications related to air quality.

Google Assistant & Amazon Alexa: You can ask your smart assistant for current air quality readings from your View Plus. For example, “Alexa, what’s the CO2 level in the living room?” or “Hey Google, how is the air quality at home?” This is convenient for quick checks without opening the app.
IFTTT If This, Then That: This is where the real automation potential lies. IFTTT allows you to create custom applets that link your Airthings data to other smart devices or services.
- Automated Ventilation: Set up an applet: “If CO2 levels in the living room go above 1000 ppm, then turn on my smart air purifier” or “then send a notification to open a window.”
- Humidity Control: “If humidity goes above 60%, then turn on my smart dehumidifier.”
- Alerts for High PM2.5: “If PM2.5 spikes, then send an alert to my phone and turn on my HVAC fan.”
- Smart Lighting Cues: You could even set up a smart light bulb to change color if a certain pollutant hits a high level, providing a visual cue.
Airthings Hub Optional, but enhances existing devices: While the View Plus connects directly to Wi-Fi, the Airthings Hub can extend the functionality of other Airthings devices like the Wave Plus, which is Bluetooth-only. The Hub connects these Bluetooth devices to Wi-Fi, allowing you to access their data remotely. If you have a mixed Airthings setup, the Hub is a valuable addition. It centralizes data from all your Airthings devices.

The Airthings Ecosystem: View Series and Beyond

View Series: In addition to the View Plus, Airthings offers the Airthings View Radon specialized for radon and Airthings View Pollution specialized for PM2.5 and CO2. The View Plus is the all-in-one option. Having a consistent app and interface across these devices simplifies management.
Wave Series: The Wave Plus and Wave Mini are battery-powered, Bluetooth-enabled devices that offer a subset of sensors. They are often used for monitoring specific areas like a child’s bedroom or basement where Wi-Fi might be less reliable, or where you need portability. The Hub bridges them to your Wi-Fi network.
Airthings for Business: Airthings also offers enterprise solutions for commercial buildings, demonstrating their expertise and reliability in large-scale air quality management. This professional lineage gives consumer products like the View Plus an added layer of credibility.

Potential for Deeper Integration

While current integrations are useful, there’s always room for growth. Users often express a desire for:

Direct HVAC Integration: Imagine your HVAC system’s ventilation mode automatically kicking in when CO2 levels rise, or your air purifier automatically adjusting fan speed based on PM2.5. This would require deeper partnerships with HVAC manufacturers or more open APIs.
Apple HomeKit: Currently, Airthings does not natively support Apple HomeKit. For users invested in the Apple ecosystem, this would be a significant enhancement for streamlined automation and Siri commands.
More Advanced APIs: For tech-savvy users, more open and documented APIs could allow for greater customization and integration with home automation platforms like Home Assistant or Node-RED, enabling truly bespoke solutions.

The Airthings View Plus, while not a central smart home hub, plays a crucial role as an intelligent sensor. It provides the data.

With existing integrations like IFTTT and voice assistants, it empowers users to create responsive environments.

As Airthings continues to develop its platform, we can expect even deeper and more seamless smart home capabilities, turning passive monitoring into active, intelligent control.

Practical Applications and Use Cases: Beyond Just Numbers

The Airthings View Plus isn’t just about showing you numbers.

It’s about providing the information you need to make your home a healthier and safer place.

Understanding the practical applications of its data can fundamentally change how you interact with your living environment. Canon Pixma G620 Wireless Megatank Photo Printer Review

Identifying and Mitigating Indoor Air Pollutants

The primary use case is, of course, to pinpoint hidden air quality issues and then take action.

Radon Mitigation: This is often the most critical. If your View Plus consistently shows high radon levels above 4 pCi/L, the EPA action level, it’s a clear signal to consult a certified radon mitigation specialist. The continuous monitoring is invaluable for verifying if a mitigation system like a sub-slab depressurization system is working effectively after installation. Many homeowners find their radon levels were dangerously high without any prior indication.
Improving Ventilation: High CO2 readings are a direct indicator of poor ventilation. This is common in well-sealed modern homes.
- Simple Fixes: The data will prompt you to open windows, use exhaust fans kitchen, bathroom more regularly, or even consider a balanced ventilation system like an ERV or HRV.
- Behavioral Changes: You might find that during a family movie night, CO2 levels quickly rise. Knowing this, you can proactively open a window or two for a few minutes every hour.
Controlling PM2.5 Sources: Spikes in PM2.5 can be incredibly revealing.
- Cooking: Notice how frying food or even toasting bread can send PM2.5 soaring. This highlights the importance of using your range hood effectively.
- Cleaning Products: Some cleaning sprays can generate particles. The View Plus helps you identify products or practices that might be contributing to poor air.
- Wildfire Smoke/Outdoor Pollution: If outdoor air quality is poor, your View Plus will show elevated PM2.5 indoors, even with windows closed, indicating infiltration and the need to run air purifiers.
Managing VOCs and Off-gassing: The TVOC sensor is great for detecting chemical off-gassing.
- New Furniture/Renovations: The “new car smell” in a new piece of furniture or carpet is VOCs. The View Plus will show elevated levels for days or even weeks. Knowing this allows you to ventilate heavily after new purchases.
- Paints and Cleaning Supplies: Using low-VOC paints and choosing natural cleaning products can be directly validated by observing your View Plus readings.
Humidity and Mold Prevention: High humidity can lead to mold and dust mite proliferation, triggering allergies and asthma.
- Bathroom Use: If humidity remains high in a bathroom after a shower, it means your exhaust fan isn’t strong enough or isn’t being run long enough.
- Basements: Basements are often prone to high humidity. The View Plus can tell you if you need a dehumidifier and how effectively it’s working.

Optimizing HVAC Systems and Air Purifiers

Your air quality monitor isn’t just passive.

It can become a powerful tool for optimizing other home systems.

Air Purifier Effectiveness: Place the View Plus near your air purifier and see how quickly it brings down PM2.5 levels. This helps you understand if your purifier is sized correctly for the room and if its filters need changing.
HVAC Fan Control: Some smart thermostats allow you to run the HVAC fan independently. If your View Plus shows high CO2, running the fan for a bit might help circulate air and bring fresh air in if your system allows it.
Filter Change Reminders: While the View Plus doesn’t directly tell you when to change your HVAC filter, if you notice consistently higher PM2.5 despite running your system, it could be a sign your filter is clogged.

Empowering Health-Conscious Living

Ultimately, the View Plus empowers you to take control of an unseen aspect of your health.

Allergy and Asthma Management: By identifying triggers like high PM2.5 pollen, dust or high humidity mold, dust mites, you can take steps to reduce exposure and alleviate symptoms.
Cognitive Function: Studies show high CO2 levels can impair decision-making and concentration. Monitoring CO2 can help ensure your home office or kids’ study areas remain conducive to focus.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your air quality is good, especially for something as serious as radon, provides significant peace of mind. If you see a spike, you know exactly what’s happening and can react.

The Airthings View Plus moves beyond theoretical health concerns to practical, data-driven solutions for a healthier home. It turns the invisible into the actionable.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the Airthings View Plus Worth the Investment?

The Airthings View Plus isn’t a budget device, often retailing for around $300. This price point naturally leads to the question: is it truly worth the investment? When you break down its capabilities and the potential returns, the answer for many will be a resounding yes, especially when considering the long-term benefits to health and home.

Initial Outlay vs. Long-Term Value

Let’s consider the upfront cost in the context of what it offers.

Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Most monitors at a lower price point offer only a subset of sensors e.g., just PM2.5 and CO2, or just radon. The View Plus bundles seven critical sensors into one device, which would cost significantly more if purchased individually.
Continuous Monitoring: Unlike single-use test kits especially for radon, the View Plus provides continuous, real-time data. This is invaluable for understanding fluctuations and validating mitigation efforts. A single professional radon test can cost $150-$250, and it’s only a snapshot. The View Plus gives you perpetual monitoring.
Wi-Fi Connectivity and App: The ability to monitor from anywhere, receive alerts, and view historical data on a user-friendly app adds significant value that isn’t present in basic, display-only monitors.

The Value of Health and Peace of Mind

This is where the investment truly pays off.

Radon Safety: The biggest hidden danger in many homes is radon. Being able to continuously monitor for this odorless, colorless, radioactive gas is priceless. The cost of a View Plus is a small fraction of potential lung cancer treatment costs or the cost of radon mitigation which can range from $800 to $2,500+. Early detection and monitoring can literally be life-saving.
Respiratory Health: For individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory sensitivities, identifying and mitigating PM2.5, VOCs, and excessive humidity can lead to a noticeable improvement in symptoms and overall well-being. Knowing what’s causing your sneezes or headaches e.g., high VOCs from a new rug allows you to act.
Cognitive Performance: High CO2 levels can make you feel sluggish, reduce focus, and even impair decision-making. Optimizing CO2 levels in your home office or children’s study areas can lead to improved productivity and learning.
Home Maintenance: High humidity can lead to mold growth and damage to wooden structures. Monitoring humidity allows you to proactively address issues before they become expensive problems. The cost of mold remediation vastly outweighs the cost of the monitor.

Comparing Alternatives and Justifying the Price

Dedicated Monitors vs. All-in-One: You could buy a dedicated radon monitor, a dedicated PM2.5 monitor, and a CO2 monitor. However, this often adds up to a similar or higher cost, with the added complexity of managing multiple apps and devices. The View Plus consolidates it all seamlessly.
Budget Monitors: Cheaper air quality monitors exist, but they often lack critical sensors especially radon and PM2.5, have less accurate sensors, or lack Wi-Fi connectivity and robust app features. You get what you pay for in terms of sensor quality and data reliability.
DIY vs. Professional: While professional home energy audits and air quality assessments are valuable, they are typically one-time events. The View Plus provides continuous, ongoing monitoring, allowing you to react to changes over time and validate any professional recommendations or changes you make.

Who Benefits Most from the Investment?

The Airthings View Plus is an excellent investment for:

Families with Young Children: Protecting developing lungs from pollutants is paramount.
Individuals with Allergies, Asthma, or Respiratory Issues: Identifying triggers can significantly improve quality of life.
Homeowners in Radon-Prone Areas: An absolute must for peace of mind and proactive management.
Individuals Spending Significant Time Indoors e.g., Remote Workers: Ensuring optimal air quality for productivity and well-being.
New Homeowners or Those Undergoing Renovations: To check for off-gassing from new materials and ensure proper ventilation.
Anyone Concerned About Long-Term Health: Understanding your environment is the first step to improving it.

In conclusion, while the Airthings View Plus represents a notable upfront cost, its comprehensive sensor suite, continuous monitoring capabilities, and user-friendly platform deliver significant long-term value in terms of health, safety, and peace of mind. Wemax Nova 4K Uhd Projector Review

It’s an investment in understanding and improving the unseen environment that directly impacts your well-being.

Final Verdict and Recommendations: Is the Airthings View Plus for You?

After deep into its design, sensor array, connectivity, performance, and practical applications, the question remains: who is the Airthings View Plus truly for? And is it the right choice for you?

The Airthings View Plus: A Strong Recommendation

The Airthings View Plus stands out as a top-tier indoor air quality monitor that offers an unparalleled combination of comprehensive sensing, user-friendliness, and reliable data. It addresses the most critical indoor air pollutants in one sleek device, making it a powerful tool for proactive health management.

Here’s why it earns a strong recommendation:

Comprehensive Monitoring: The inclusion of Radon, PM2.5, CO2, and TVOCs alongside temperature, humidity, and air pressure provides a holistic view that few competitors match. You’re not guessing. you’re knowing.
Radon Expertise: Airthings’ long-standing reputation for accurate radon detection is a major selling point. For homeowners concerned about this silent killer, the continuous monitoring capability is invaluable.
User-Friendly Experience: From the intuitive e-ink display and wave function to the well-designed app with historical data and actionable insights, the View Plus is remarkably easy to use and understand for anyone, regardless of their technical prowess.
Actionable Data: It doesn’t just show you numbers. it helps you interpret them and provides recommendations for improving your air quality, empowering you to make tangible changes to your environment or habits.
Reliable Performance: While not lab-grade, the sensors are accurate enough for residential use, providing consistent readings that allow you to track trends and validate the effectiveness of your mitigation efforts.

Who Should Buy the Airthings View Plus?

This device is an excellent fit for a specific demographic of homeowners and individuals:

Health-Conscious Individuals and Families: If you prioritize indoor air quality as part of your overall well-being, especially for children, elderly, or those with sensitivities allergies, asthma, the View Plus is a highly worthwhile investment.
Homeowners in Radon-Prone Areas: If you live in a region known for high radon levels, or if you simply want continuous peace of mind regarding this significant health risk, the View Plus is a no-brainer.
Individuals with Respiratory Conditions: Knowing your exposure to PM2.5 and identifying triggers like high humidity or VOCs can be life-changing for managing symptoms.
New Homeowners or Those Considering Renovations: It’s an excellent tool to baseline your air quality, identify issues from new materials VOCs, and ensure proper ventilation.
Remote Workers or Those Spending Significant Time Indoors: Optimize your workspace for cognitive function and comfort by monitoring CO2 and other pollutants.
Anyone Seeking Peace of Mind: The ability to see your invisible air quality and know that it’s safe or what to do if it’s not provides a significant level of reassurance.

Who Might Look for Alternatives?

While the View Plus is excellent, it’s not for everyone.

Budget-Conscious Buyers: If your budget is extremely tight and you only care about one or two specific pollutants e.g., just CO2 for ventilation, or just PM2.5 for general air quality, a more specialized and less expensive monitor might suffice. However, you’ll sacrifice the comprehensive view.
Those Needing Hyper-Specific Sensor Data: If you require laboratory-grade accuracy or need to identify specific chemical compounds within the VOC spectrum, you’d be looking at much more expensive professional equipment, not a consumer device.
Users Deeply Invested in Specific Smart Home Ecosystems e.g., HomeKit: While it has Alexa/Google Assistant and IFTTT, its direct integration into some other smart home platforms is not as robust as some native devices.

Final Thoughts

The Airthings View Plus is more than just an air quality monitor. it’s an investment in health and knowledge. It provides crucial, actionable insights into the air you breathe every day, empowering you to create a safer, healthier, and more comfortable living environment. For those who understand the profound impact of indoor air quality on long-term well-being, the Airthings View Plus represents a smart and highly recommended purchase. It’s like having a silent, diligent guardian for the air in your home, constantly working to keep you informed and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Airthings View Plus?

The Airthings View Plus is a comprehensive, smart indoor air quality monitor that continuously measures key pollutants and environmental factors including radon, particulate matter PM2.5, carbon dioxide CO2, total volatile organic compounds TVOCs, humidity, temperature, and air pressure.

What pollutants does the Airthings View Plus detect?

It detects seven key indoor air parameters: Radon, PM2.5, CO2, TVOCs, Humidity, Temperature, and Air Pressure.

Is the Airthings View Plus accurate for radon?

Yes, the Airthings View Plus uses an alpha spectroscopy sensor, which is a reliable technology for consumer-grade radon detection. Withings Scanwatch Review

It provides continuous, long-term average readings that are crucial for understanding true radon exposure.

How long does it take for Airthings View Plus to show accurate radon readings?

It typically takes about 7 days for the Airthings View Plus to provide stable initial radon readings.

Long-term averages e.g., 30-day or 90-day are most representative of your home’s radon levels.

Does the Airthings View Plus need to be plugged in?

No, it can be powered by 6 AA batteries for up to two years, offering flexibility in placement.

Alternatively, it can be continuously powered via the included USB-C cable for more frequent data updates and a constantly refreshed display.

Does the Airthings View Plus connect to Wi-Fi?

Yes, the Airthings View Plus connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network, allowing you to access real-time data and historical trends from anywhere via the Airthings app.

What is the e-ink display on the View Plus?

The e-ink display is a low-power, paper-like screen on the front of the device that shows selected air quality metrics at a glance.

It’s customizable and easy to read without backlight glare.

Can I get alerts from the Airthings View Plus?

Yes, you can set up custom alerts in the Airthings app to receive push notifications when any monitored pollutant or environmental factor exceeds your predefined thresholds.

What is the “wave function” on the Airthings View Plus?

The wave function allows you to simply wave your hand in front of the device to get a quick visual status of your overall air quality, indicated by a color-coded light green, yellow, or red. Halo Infinite For Pc Review

How does Airthings View Plus help with allergies or asthma?

By monitoring PM2.5 dust, pollen, pet dander, humidity mold, dust mites, and VOCs chemical irritants, the View Plus helps identify potential triggers, allowing you to take action like running an air purifier or improving ventilation.

Can the View Plus help identify mold issues?

Yes, by monitoring humidity levels, the View Plus can indicate if your home’s humidity is consistently high above 60%, which creates an ideal environment for mold growth.

What are TVOCs and why are they important?

TVOCs Total Volatile Organic Compounds are a broad group of chemicals emitted as gases from various solids or liquids, such as paints, cleaning products, and new furniture.

High levels can cause short- and long-term health issues.

Does the Airthings View Plus integrate with smart home systems?

Yes, it has limited smart home integrations, primarily through Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa for voice commands, and IFTTT If This, Then That for custom automations with other smart devices.

Can I monitor multiple Airthings devices with one app?

Yes, the Airthings app allows you to manage and view data from multiple Airthings devices across different rooms or locations, all within a single interface.

Is the Airthings View Plus portable?

Yes, it is battery-powered, making it easy to move between rooms to test different areas, though for continuous monitoring of your primary living spaces, it’s generally placed in a fixed location.

How often does the Airthings View Plus update its readings?

When powered by USB-C, it updates readings more frequently typically every few minutes to the app. When on battery power, it updates less often to conserve energy, but still continuously monitors.

The display updates every 2.5 minutes or on demand with a wave. Redmine Review

What is the typical lifespan of the Airthings View Plus sensors?

Airthings designs its sensors for long-term stability and accuracy, typically several years. Radon sensors, for instance, are very robust.

Like all electronic sensors, some like VOCs may see slight degradation over very long periods 5+ years.

Is there a subscription fee for the Airthings app or data?

No, there is no subscription fee required for accessing your real-time and historical data through the Airthings app.

All core features are included with the device purchase.

Can I use Airthings View Plus in a basement?

Yes, in fact, basements are often critical places to monitor, especially for radon and humidity, as they are prone to higher levels of both.

Does the Airthings View Plus replace a professional radon test?

While the View Plus provides continuous, reliable radon data, some real estate transactions or regulatory requirements may still necessitate a certified professional radon test.

However, for personal peace of mind and long-term monitoring, it’s highly effective.

How does CO2 levels affect me?

High CO2 levels above 1000-1200 ppm can indicate poor ventilation and lead to symptoms like drowsiness, headaches, reduced concentration, and impaired decision-making.

What should I do if my Airthings View Plus shows high radon?

If your long-term average radon readings are consistently above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, it’s recommended to consult a certified radon mitigation professional.

What does “PM2.5” mean?

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter, which are airborne particles 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. Xpg Xenia 15 Kc Review

These are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs and can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Can the Airthings View Plus tell me if my air filter is working?

While it doesn’t directly monitor your HVAC filter, if you notice consistently lower PM2.5 readings after changing your air filter or using an air purifier, it indicates they are working effectively.

What is the recommended range for humidity?

The recommended indoor humidity level is typically between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort and to prevent mold growth and dust mites.

Is the Airthings View Plus easy to set up?

Yes, the setup process is guided by the Airthings app and involves connecting the device to your home Wi-Fi, which is generally straightforward and takes only a few minutes.

Does the Airthings View Plus have an internal fan?

No, the Airthings View Plus is designed for silent operation and relies on natural airflow for sampling, except for a small internal pump for the radon sensor.

How does the Airthings View Plus compare to the Airthings Wave Plus?

The View Plus is more comprehensive, adding PM2.5 and having direct Wi-Fi connectivity and an on-device display.

The Wave Plus is smaller, battery-only, Bluetooth-dependent requires a Hub for remote Wi-Fi access, and lacks PM2.5 detection.

Can the Airthings View Plus differentiate between types of VOCs?

No, the TVOC sensor measures the total concentration of volatile organic compounds and does not identify specific chemicals. It indicates the overall presence of chemical off-gassing.

What is the warranty for the Airthings View Plus?

Airthings typically offers a standard warranty on their devices, often 1 year, which can sometimes be extended by registering the product.

It’s best to check the official Airthings website for the most current warranty information. Optoma Cinemax P2 Review

Airthings View Plus Review