In the experiment: Arctic Air air cooler – cool and refreshing breeze for the desk

Arctic Air cooled the 25-degree room air to almost 18 degrees. This was measured directly in front of the device. As the distance increased, the cooling power decreased sharply, however, the volume of cool air was very limited. However, cooling could still be achieved at 3–4 degrees from a distance of one meter.

The start wasn't promising, as the device was leaking water from somewhere, but this was probably due to the fact that the paper stack hadn't had time to absorb the water quickly enough into itself. The stack got completely wet in just over three minutes, and no more leaks could be detected.

When we turned on the device and turned on the fan to full power, surprise, surprise: The device actually started blowing cool air. It was able to cool down 25-degree Celsius air to about 18 degrees Celsius directly measured from the front of the device. As you move further away, the cooling power naturally decreases. At about a meter away, we measured the temperature at about 21 degrees Celsius. The device has three different fan speeds, which also affect the cooling power. You can direct the airflow up or down as desired.

The noise level of the Arctic Air device should be lower for devices that are kept at close range. Especially at the highest blower power level, the noise was already disturbing. At the lowest speed, the device was clearly quieter but also less effective at cooling.

The paper cooling tower gets dirty over time and may even collect mold. Therefore, it is recommended to replace it at least every six months. Replacement filters were not directly available from the seller's online store, but they were offered at the time of purchase for 29.95 euros / two pieces. Hopefully, spare filters will be available separately in the future?

A filter paper basket made from a kind of filter paper absorbs water from a tank located on the side of the device. The fan behind the device blows air through the basket, causing it to evaporate water. The basket cools and also cools the air passing through it.

Personal air conditioner

The Arctic Air air cooler worked as intended. It does indeed cool the air. Of course, its power is not enough to cool entire rooms; it is mainly intended for personal use to provide a light, fresh and cool air flow. This is actually what the device is intended for. The power of the device can be increased by using as cold water as possible and adding ice cubes if necessary.

There can be many different uses and situations for the device. With an USB backup power source, the cooler could also be useful for camping, if you want to and are able to carry the device with you. However, considering the intended use and the device’s technology, the price of an air cooler seems too expensive.

+ Surprisingly good cooling performance
+ Fresh and cool airflow
+ Interesting idea (with reservations)
– The price as a whole
– Noise at maximum power
– The cooling coil becoming dirty

Arctic Air air cooler

For more information: www.tvins.fi
Price: €99.95 (*
Water tank volume: Approximately 0.8 l
Operating time: 4–8 hours
Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 17 cm
Weight: 0.87 kg
Power source: USB 5V (1,500 mA)
Maximum power consumption: 46 W
Other: USB power supply, USB cable (1 m), 3 fan speeds, replaceable filter/cooling bracket, water tank illumination (7 colors), LED indicator for water level low and filter replacement

*) At the time of writing, the product's price had dropped from 99.95 euros to 79.95 euros.
All information provided by the product representative.

The same product from China?

We found the exact same product from China through the eBay online store, but at a significantly lower price. With shipping included, it was 28 euros! Of course, without the right of return, warranty, maintenance, or spare parts. Still, the price difference is significant.

We are still waiting for the product to arrive, so we cannot be certain yet whether the product matches Arctic Air. We will return to this matter later.