When it comes to air quality monitoring, there’s no shortage of options, but not all monitors are built with you in mind. If you’re looking for a monitor that’s accurate, mobile-ready, user-friendly, and genuinely supportive of environmental action, look no further than AirBeam Mini.

Let’s break down how AirBeam Mini stacks up against PurpleAir—and why it’s the better tool for individuals, educators, and organizations who care about clean air and community-powered science.

1. You Own Your Data (and It’s Always Free to Access)

With AirBeam Mini, your data is truly yours. You can access it anytime through our free iOS and Android apps or our web platform without paywalls or strings attached. We also offer a free and open API. PurpleAir, by contrast, charges users to access their own data and use their API. And worse? They technically own your data.

2. Mobile-Ready and Versatile

Unlike PurpleAir, which is limited to fixed, plug-in-only monitoring, AirBeam Mini is designed for both fixed and mobile use. With a built-in battery, Bluetooth, and WiFi capability, it can go wherever you do. Whether you’re walking through your neighborhood, commuting, or setting up monitoring at multiple locations, the AirBeam Mini has you covered.

3. Accurate and Trusted

Accuracy is everything when it comes to environmental monitoring. AirBeam has been recognized by independent studies for its precision and versatility, making it a trusted choice for researchers, advocates, and everyday users. Many competitors, including PurpleAir, have faced criticism for inconsistent or inaccurate readings.

4. Easy to Use, Easy to Share

Setting up AirBeam Mini takes minutes with no technical support needed. The sleek, compact design makes it a breeze to deploy multiple units, and our free app makes it easy to visualize, understand, and share your air quality data in real-time. PurpleAir’s setup is slower, often requires company support, and lacks mobile app accessibility.

5. Internal Storage and Automatic Backups

Worried about losing your data? Don’t be. AirBeam Mini includes internal storage and automatic data backup. PurpleAir only offers storage through additional accessories and has no built-in protections against data loss.

6. Built for Education and Advocacy

We’re more than a tech company. We’re a mission-driven nonprofit, founded by activists passionate about clean air and environmental justice. That’s why we offer free curriculum guides, campaign creation tools, and responsive technical support. Our technology is ideal for STEM learning, community projects, and advocacy campaigns, giving users real-time feedback that inspires action.

7. Transparent, Open Source, and Community-Minded

We believe in open science. That means full access not just to your own data, but also to public data from across our network to help power your research or advocacy. We don’t gatekeep. We empower.

8. Great Value, No Hidden Costs

At $99, AirBeam Mini comes with all the features and accessories you need including a battery, a power supply, and internal data storage for recording offline. In addition, the AirCasting Android and iOS apps are free as is the AirCasting website. With models ranging in cost from $139 to $299, PurpleAir is expensive and doesn’t include basic accessories like a battery, power supply, or data storage.

The Bottom Line

The AirBeam Mini isn’t just another air quality monitor, it’s a trusted tool for people who care about clean air, science, and community power. Whether you’re tracking personal exposure, leading a classroom project, or organizing for environmental justice, AirBeam Mini gives you everything you need. 

Ready to breathe easier? Choose the AirBeam Mini: accurate, open, and built for impact.