The ambient one air quality monitor tracks pollutants in studio spaces
Designed for creative spaces, it measures CO₂, fine particles & lets you monitor changes in the air
The ambient one from London-based company Ambient Works is a portable air quality monitor designed for homes, studios and workshops.
It measures fine particles (PM1.0, PM2.5, PM4.0 and PM10), CO₂, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides, temperature and humidity using Swiss-made sensors. A magnetic charging dock is also available, while the Pro version adds a formaldehyde sensor for spaces where glues or composite wood are used.
Measuring 122 x 84 x 36mm and weighing around 550gr, the unit has an anodised aluminium body. Readings appear on an e-ink display, while an LED changes colour based on overall air quality.
The ambient one works offline without the app, but connecting it unlocks historical data, with readings stored hour by hour and day by day. The app can also send alerts, offer tips and let users set custom thresholds for their space.
You can tag activities such as soldering, painting or cooking to see how they affect air quality. Multiple units can also be paired across different rooms, while modular docks allow additional sensors to be added.
Read this next: Five tips for keeping your mind & body healthy in the studio
Connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Home Assistant, allowing an air quality reading to trigger actions such as switching on a purifier or opening a vent. The app can also flag a malfunctioning filter or potential pollution from new items in the room.
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For those working in studios, an air quality monitor like this could be useful given how much time is often spent in small, enclosed spaces.
A 2024 study published in the US National Library of Medicine, involving 206 office workers at home, found suggestive evidence that higher indoor CO₂ levels may make it harder to filter out cognitive distractions.
Learn more about the ambient one here.
Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.
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