IQAir Atem X Review

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

In This Review

Purification | Filters | Wind Speed | Ozone | Noise | Usability | Size | Specs | Summary

Purification Performance

For our purification test, we placed the IQAir Atem X in a medium sized room (~14’ x ~10’) in our office. With an air quality detector, we take a baseline measurement of the air quality. 

Next, we ran the Atem on the maximum fan speed for 1 hour, letting it purify the air. After 1 hour, we took another measurement of the post-test air quality which we can use to compare to the baseline and determine performance. 

Purification performance for the Atem X was fantastic across the board. In these tests, we are looking for the key indicators we measure to reach as close to 0 as possible. Seeing the Atem X’s 0.1 for both PM2.5 and PM10 is practically perfect results. 

Below, we’ve included information on the testing criteria and what defines good vs. bad air quality. 

On average, based on all air purifiers we’ve tested to date, we see air purifiers able to reduce PM2.5 to 0.47 and PM10 to 0.69. The IQAir Atem X’s results are much better than average.

The Filters

The IQAir Atem X achieves this excellent performance largely thanks to the two types of filters it houses inside.

These include:

• Pre-filter
• HEPA

The pre-filter, or Impactor as IQAir calls it, catches larger particles like hair and dust before it enters into the device.

After, the HEPA filter does the majority of the work, catching particles as small as 0.3 microns like pollen, viruses, smoke, and more.

For both of these filters, there are 3 of each type installed on the device

Wind Speed Test

To measure the wind speed of the IQAir Atem X, we place an anemometer directly on the air vents where purified air escapes the device. We measure the wind speed on both the minimum and maximum fan speeds. 

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.

We take measurements beforehand, let the air purifier run for 1 hour, and take post-test measurements to compare to the pre-test results. 

Most air purifiers won’t create any ozone and that is exactly what we found with the IQAir Atem X. 

Noise Test

For our noise test, we use a noise meter to take a baseline measurement of the ambient noise levels in a room. We then set up the IQAir Atem X in that same location and turn it on. We run it on the minimum and maximum fan speeds, taking measurements of the noise generated to compare to the baseline. 

Here are the results:

The noise levels for the IQAir Atem X fall between 40.1 – 66 dB. At the high end it can get quite loud, but with Smart mode enabled, the device will automatically adjust the fan speed based on the surrounding air quality. That way the device will only be as loud as it needs to be to clean the air. 

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

Overall usability for the IQAir Atem X is excellent. It offers a unique shape and design compared to other air purifiers we’ve tested. In addition, it stands on wheels, so despite its size, it is easy to move around. 

Setup

Setup is quite simply largely thanks to the IQAir Atem X being mostly setup out of the box. Here’s what comes in the box:

• Atem X
• Wheel base
• Manual

Once you remove the packaging the device is effectively ready to run. If you plan to use the wheels you will want to attach them, but that can be done simply by lining it up and snapping into the base.

If you plan to use the AirVisual app, make sure to keep the tag with the QR code that comes attached to the box as you will need that during setup.

Controls & App

Controls are quite intuitive for the IQAir Atem X. There are a few touch buttons that are reactive and easy to understand. Due to the location of the buttons and the free-rotating nature of the Atem X, sometimes these buttons can end up on the bottom of the device. But, as long as you keep it oriented correctly, this shouldn’t be an issue. 

These buttons give you access to the standard controls of the device like toggling power on/off, adjusting the fan speed, and toggling on/off the lights.

Additionally, the fan speed buttons double as an air quality indicator showing the current air quality it measures through internal sensors. 

For further control of the device you can connect it to the AirVisual app for wireless control and additional features. 

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

Maintenance for the IQAir Atem X is fairly straightforward only requiring replacing and clean filters. The pre-filters can be vacuumed or washed clean as needed. Whereas, the HEPA filters will need to be replaced over time. 

The filter indicator light will notify you when that needs to happen, however we have found that HEPA filters need to be replaced every 8-12 months depending on usage and environment. 

Size & Dimensions

Despite the unique shape, the IQAir Atem X is a medium-large air purifier. It doesn’t stand quite as large as some air purifiers we’ve tested, but it still takes up room. 

Here are the exact dimensions of the IQAir Atem X:

• Diameter – 10.0″
• Height – 27.1”
• Weight – 28.7 lbs.

Regarding coverage area, the Atem X can cover up to 1,650 sq. ft. with a CADR of 440 CFM. This level of coverage should be more than enough for any large room, quite possibly whole apartments. 

Specifications

Specifications
Manufacturer	IQAir
Model	Atem X
Diameter	10.0″
Height	27.1″
Weight	28.7 lbs.
Filters	HEPA
Wifi 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:

• Nearly perfect purification performance: In our purification tests the IQAir Atem X was able to greatly improve the surrounding air. It reduced PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.1, which is nearly perfect performance. 
• Excellent usability: Across the board using the IQAir Atem X is a simple experience. The device is ready to go out of the box, the controls are intuitive and reactive, and maintenance is straightforward. In addition, moving around the Atem is easy, thanks to the wheel base. 
• Large coverage area: If you need an extra large coverage area, the IQAir Atem X has you covered. With a CADR of 440 CFM, it can cover up to 1,650 sq. ft., being sufficient for most large rooms and even some apartments.

For more information or to buy the IQAir Atem X click here.