The Dyson HushJet Mini Cool fan, the company's first portable fan, offers impressive power with wind speeds up to 55mph but comes with significant noise levels, reaching 76.2 decibels at its highest setting, according to testing by Alan Martin for The Guardian.
Design and Features
The fan measures just 38mm in diameter and features a DC motor that runs at up to 65,000 rpm. It includes five power settings plus a boost mode, and comes with an adjustable lanyard for wearing around the neck and a charging stand for desk use. Available in stone/blush, carnelian/sky, and ink/cobalt color options.
Performance Testing
Testing with a digital anemometer revealed wind speeds ranging from 2.0 metres per second (m/s) at the lowest setting to 6.1 m/s at level five, with boost mode reaching 7.5 m/s. This makes it the second most powerful handheld fan tested, behind only the JisuLife Handheld Fan Ultra2 which reaches 9.8 m/s but weighs 294g compared to the Dyson's 220g.
Noise Levels
Sound measurements taken 15cm from the device showed 61.5dB at the lowest setting, increasing to 69.4dB at level two and 76.2dB at level five. Boost mode hits 80.3dB, which Martin describes as "ludicrous" and comparable to landscaping equipment heard from inside a house.
Battery Life
The 5,000mAh battery lasted 6 hours 9 minutes 30 seconds at the lowest setting but only 50 minutes 45 seconds at the highest setting. This is significantly shorter than competing fans, which typically last three to four hours at top speed.
Comparison with Alternatives
The Shark ChillPill, priced at £129.99, offers less power (max 4.6 m/s) but includes interchangeable heads for misting and cold plate cooling. The John Lewis handheld fan at £12 provides a quieter experience at 62.4dB and longer battery life. The Diveblues Jetforce at £22.95 matches the Dyson's power (6.6 m/s) but also suffers from high noise levels. The JisuLife Ultra2 at around £63.50 exceeds the Dyson's power (9.8 m/s) but is louder at 88.8dB.
Verdict
Martin concludes that while the Dyson HushJet Mini Cool effectively cools, its noise above level three makes it obtrusive in public settings. The £100 price tag is also a significant drawback compared to cheaper alternatives that offer adequate cooling for most users.
