Crusaders PM 2.5 Detector Review: Monitoring Air Pollution Around You

The implementation of the odd-even rule in Delhi has suddenly brought air pollution in the forefront of our debates. There are different components through which air quality levels are monitored in a city, however, high levels of PM 2.5 are considered particularly lethal. For the simple reason, they are those particles that are 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter (40 times smaller in comparison to the diameter of 1 hair strand) and thus could be missed by the natural pollution blockers in our sensory system.

This new device from Crusaders Technologies uses  laser particle sensors, which are more accurate as compared to normally available dust sensors using IR and can be used to check air quality in rooms, cars, public areas, etc. We used the device to check air quality levels in our office, car, living room and even on road, bang in the middle of one of the infamous Gurujams! The device is fairly easy to use and the readings we got varied from 90 in living room to around 120 in office, to as high as 550 when on road, and as per expectations. So, you can trust the accuracy of the device. Moreover, once fully charged it lasts you for quite a few days at a stretch even with regular use.

Our verdict

It's priced at Rs 4,999 which might be a deterrent. However, those who are really finicky about the quality of air they are surrounded by or have an air purifier installed and want to test its accuracy, might have a good reason to purchase it.

Key specifications

66 gms in weight, Laser scattering technique, 0-999 microgram/m3 range measuring range, response time < 5s, Li-ion battery 500 mAh, work time >4hours, auto – standby option in case of ideal time of 2 minutes.