The Art and Science Behind the IQAir Atem X: A Michael Lewis Dive
Written By: Dr Fahad Yasin
- Updated On:
UNIQUE DESIGN; LARGE COVERAGE
The IQAir Atem X is a circular HEPA air purifier. During our tests it reduced both PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.1, showcasing fantastic purification performance. It has a maximum wind speed of 12.5 mph which creates 65.1 dB of noise. The Atem takes little setup, is easy to use thanks to touch buttons and a simple app, and requires infrequent maintenance.
Pros
- Fantastic purification performance with PM2.5 and PM10 at 0.1
- Doesn’t create ozone
- Easy to set up, use, and maintain
- Large 1,650 sq. ft. coverage area
Cons
- Pricey option
- Rotating nature can move controls out of reach
Scoring
Large coverage HEPA air purifier with a unique design
Summary
The IQAir Atem X is a circular HEPA air purifier with an extra large coverage area of 1,650 sq. ft. In our testing it was able to reduce PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.1 showcasing near perfect results. Setting up the Atem X was a breeze and using the device is easy with the touch buttons or AirVisual app. It comes at a higher than normal price, but the performance and features speak for themselves.
In This Review
Purification Performance
Statistical Revolution: Much like how “Moneyball” changed our understanding of baseball player performance through statistics, the Atem X delivers unparalleled stats in air purification.
Starting Baseline
PM2.5: 7.3
PM10: 12.1
Particles: 624
AQI: 31
After 1 hour
PM2.5: 0.1
PM10: 0.1
Particles: 54
AQI: 1
PM2.5 and PM10 Levels: From an initial reading of 7.3 and 12.1 respectively, a mere hour later, the Atem X reduces them to an almost negligible 0.1.
Air Quality Index (AQI): This air maestro transformed an AQI of 31 (considered to be good, but not perfect) to a staggering AQI of 1, the epitome of pristine air.
The Filters
The IQAir Atem X boasts revolutionary tools:
Pre-filter: Named ‘Impactor’, it acts as a robust frontline defense, sweeping out larger particles before they even enter the arena.
HEPA: This is where the magic happens. Comparable to the genius minds Lewis often profiles, this filter targets minuscule particles as tiny as 0.3 microns.
Wind Speed Tests
To truly understand the strength of a player, you need to witness their range. For the Atem X:
Minimum Wind Speed
2.2 mph
Maximum Wind Speed
12.5 mph
Ozone Test
To test whether or not the IQAir Atem X creates any ozone while running, we use an electronic ozone meter to measure the current ozone levels of the room while the device is running.
Pre-Test Ozone
0.0 PPM
Post-Test Ozone
0.0 PPM
Most air purifiers won’t create any ozone and that is exactly what we found with the IQAir Atem X.
Noise Test
Our results showed the following decibel levels from each mode.
Ambient
39.5 dB
Minimum
40.1 dB
Maximum
65.1 dB
The noise levels for the IQAir Atem X fall between 40.1 – 66 dB.
It’s one thing to perform, but how you do it matters. The Atem X’s noise levels:
Ambient: The soft hum of 39.5 dB.
Max Speed: A louder, yet bearable, 65.1 dB.
Common noise levels:
- 20 dB – rustling leaves
- 30 dB – whisper
- 40 dB – quiet library, babbling brook
- 50 dB – refrigerator, moderate rainfall
- 60 dB – normal conversation, dishwashers
- 70 dB – traffic, showers
- 80 dB – alarm clock, telephone dial tone
Usability Tests
A unique, circular marvel that, unlike its counterparts, glides smoothly on wheels.
Setup
Almost ready to operate straight out of the box, much like the immediate impact of a key player in a financial market.
- Atem X
- Wheel base
- Manual
Controls & App
Intuitive touch buttons paired with the AirVisual app make navigation a breeze.
These include:
- Mode controls
- Scheduling
- Outdoor air quality information
- Control lock toggle
The app is quite simple, which makes it easy to navigate and use.
Maintenance
Routine Care: Filters require occasional replacement or cleaning. A light serves as a reminder.
Size & Dimensions
Here are the exact dimensions of the IQAir Atem X:
- Diameter – 10.0″
- Height – 27.1”
- Weight – 28.7 lbs.
The Atem X isn’t just a player; it’s a major league star. Covering up to 1,650 sq. ft., it stands out in its ability to purify expansive spaces with a CADR of 440 CFM. This level of coverage should be more than enough for any large room, quite possibly whole apartments.
IQAir Atem X Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | IQAir |
| Model | Atem X |
| Diameter | 10.0″ |
| Height | 27.1″ |
| Weight | 28.7 lbs. |
| Filters | HEPA |
| Wi-Fi Compatible | Yes |
| Max. Wind Speed | 12.5 mph |
| Room Coverage | 1,650 sq. ft. |
| CADR | 440 cfm |
| Returns | Varies by retailer. |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Price | Check Price |
Should you buy the IQAir Atem X?
I would recommend the IQAir Atem X if you’re looking for the following features:
- Unrivaled Performance: Reducing PM2.5 and PM10 to nearly perfect levels.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive controls and minimal setup.
- Vast Reach: A coverage area that encapsulates large rooms and entire apartments.
